Street Vacations and Easement Abandonments

Street vacations and easement abandonments revoke public use of the right-of-way or easement.

  • Anything considered a public right-of-way may be subject to vacation:
    • Road
    • Streets
    • Alleys
    • Public utility easements
    • Public service easements
  • Only the property owner whose land includes or abuts a public street right-of-way or public easement may request a vacation or an abandonment.
  • City staff determines the appropriate category of vacation for each application.
  • All vacations require City Council action and must comply with state laws and local ordinances.
  • Once the vacation is approved by City Council and recorded at Alameda County Recorder Office, the title to the underlying property shall be cleared off any public right-of-ways and/or public service easements.

Apply By Email: email your completed application to DOTOnlinePermits@oaklandca.gov.

If you have questions about the application for ROW Vacation or Public Easement Abandonment, please call the DOT Permit Counter at 510-238-3199 or email DOTOnlinePermits@oaklandca.gov.

Transportation Permit Counter Hours

  • Monday: 9am - 3pm walk-in
  • Tuesday: 9am - 12pm / 1pm - 4pm by appointment only
  • Wednesday: 10am - 2pm walk-in
  • Thursday: 9am - 12pm / 1pm - 4pm by appointment only
  • Friday: Closed
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