§ 15-13. Emergency excavation.

(a) When authorized.

A person may conduct an emergency excavation without first obtaining a street-cut permit only if:

(1) the excavation is needed, as a result of an unforeseen event, to prevent or abate a potential danger to life, health, or property;

(2) before undertaking the excavation:

(i) the person notifies the Director of the emergency; and

(ii) the Director authorizes the person to proceed with the excavation; and

(3) the person obtains a street-cut permit for the excavation:

(i) within 18 hours after beginning the excavation; or

(ii) if the Department's offices are closed, on the next day that its offices are open.

(b) Limitations.

Under no circumstances may an emergency excavation be closed before:

(1) a street-cut permit is issued; and

(2) the work is inspected and approved by the Department.