New TOPS Users
All first-time public space permit applicants need to register as a TOPS user to establish an account. Just click on "Register" and follow the prompts and instructions. You may register as a home owner, tenant, contractor, business or as an organization, individual or agent. To help you remember your TOPS user name, we suggest using your email address.

Once registered, the system makes it easy for you to log into your account anytime to apply for a permit, edit your application, upload plans electronically, or check the status of your application.



Search for Permit
Please select a Permit Type and enter Tracking or Permit Number.

Apply for new permit
TOPS makes it easy to apply for the type of permit you want - just follow the prompts and instructions.



Subscribe to TOPS Announcements
By subscribing, you will receive timely notifications via email as soon as important announcements are published on the TOPS homepage.




Press Release

Revised Submission Process for Bonds, CDs and LOCs
New policy in effect from February 1, 2025

DDOT announces updated procedures for non-cash instruments. Under updated guidelines, only the original physical NCIs will be accepted in-person or via mail. Read More

Public Space Activation

The District Department of Transportation aims to prioritize people-centric design and management of public spaces, fostering a sense of livability while enhancing accessibility, sustainability, safety, and placemaking. Read more

The Public Space Committee Hosts Monthly Virtual Hearings

Hearings are the fourth Thursday of the month (except November & December), starting 9 a.m. 

Visit Public Space Committee website for updated agendas. Final March Hearing

The PSC Survey

EV Charging Station Permit Update 
Starting October 25, 2024, curbside charging permits are no longer available through the EV Charging Station permit in TOPS. DDOT is revising the installation rules with updates expected by spring 2025. Read more

03/24/2025

Suspension of Work Closure for Upcoming Washington Nationals Home Games

Per Mayoral order, the District Department of Transportation's Public Space Regulation Division (PSRD) is reinstating Suspension of Work for construction-related activities within the boundaries surrounding the Washington Nationals stadium during home games. Read more.


02/28/2025

OAH New Rules of Procedures -- Notification to all permittees

Effective December 1, 2024, the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) implemented new Rules of Procedures under Chapter 28 of Title 1 of the DC Municipal Regulation.  The general rules of procedure are applicable to any new or pending case (Notice of Infraction NOI) issued on or after December 1, 2024. 

Read more.

System Overview
This online system enables home owners, tenants, and businesses alike to apply for the specific type of public space occupancy, construction, excavation, annual or rental permit required for use of the public space within the District of Columbia. Whether you need to occupy metered and unmetered curbside parking, sidewalk, alley or travel lane areas for your activity or construction related work, TOPS will work for you. If you are a developer or are in need of a zoning plan review through the Development Review Branch, TOPS will work for you as well.




Additional Information

For additional public space permitting information, please visit our web site at www.ddot.dc.gov.

You can conveniently create a TOPS account, access it, and apply for a permit from anywhere using your laptop or PC. For Emergency No Parking (ENP) Sign or Reserved Parking Sign printing, please visit one of our designated kiosks. Click here to locate the nearest kiosk. You may also contact DDOT at (202)442-4670.

District Department of Transportation (DDOT)
Direct Permit Service Center

1100 4th Street SW, 2nd Floor, Washington DC, 20024
Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday
8:30 am to 4:00 pm and Thursday 9:30 am to 4:00 pm

Office of the DC Treasurer:
1101 4th Street, SW, Washington, DC 20024
(You can pay Permit Fees and Deposits online or at the Treasurer's office.)

Frequently Asked
Questions
Public
Space Fees
Search Permits
and Applications
TOPS Safe Accommodation
Report
Fees and Deposits
Calculator
Suspension of work
Calendar
PSC Calendar
Public Space Permit Lookup Tool
Also available is the Public Space Permit Lookup Tool that is enabled by Geographic Information System (GIS). This tool gives you the ability to see permits on an interactive map.
Click here to view a map for Commercial Use of Public Space.


d.TOPS Version 20.41