What's the cost to remove a curb cut for my Ottawa driveway?

Removing a curb cut in Ottawa typically costs $800 to $2,500 depending on the size of the opening, curb material, and whether you're restoring the full curb and sidewalk or just filling the gap. This work requires a City of Ottawa permit and must be done to municipal specifications.

The cost breakdown includes several components. Curb restoration runs $150 to $300 per linear metre for standard concrete curbing, while sidewalk restoration costs $80 to $150 per square metre if the sidewalk section needs replacement. Excavation and base preparation adds $200 to $500 depending on depth requirements, and you'll need granular base material at $25 to $35 per tonne. The City of Ottawa permit costs approximately $200 to $400 depending on the scope of work.

Ottawa's frost conditions make proper base preparation critical for curb cut removal. The new curb and sidewalk sections must have adequate granular base extending below the 1.2-metre frost line to prevent heaving and cracking. Clay soils common in Barrhaven, Orleans, and Gloucester require geotextile fabric beneath the base to prevent soil migration. The restored curb must match the existing height, profile, and drainage slope — any deviation creates water pooling and ice buildup that damages the restoration within the first winter.

You'll need a City of Ottawa permit before starting this work since it involves the municipal right-of-way. Call 3-1-1 or apply online through the City's permit portal. The application requires a site plan showing the existing and proposed curb line, and the work must be inspected by City staff. The contractor must be WSIB-covered and experienced with municipal specifications — improper curb work fails inspection and requires costly re-work.

Timing matters significantly in Ottawa. Concrete curb work should be completed between May and October when temperatures consistently stay above 10°C for proper curing. Winter freeze-thaw cycles will destroy improperly cured concrete within one season. Plan for 2 to 4 weeks lead time for permit approval, and book contractors early in the season since municipal work requires specialized experience.

This is definitely professional work — curb cuts involve precise excavation, forming, concrete placement, and finishing to municipal standards. The restored section must handle snowplow impacts, salt exposure, and freeze-thaw cycling while maintaining proper drainage. DIY curb work typically fails inspection and creates liability issues since it's within the municipal right-of-way.

Get quotes from contractors experienced with City of Ottawa municipal work, verify their WSIB coverage, and ensure they'll handle the permit application and inspection process. The cheapest quote often means shortcuts on base depth or concrete specifications that lead to failure within 2 to 3 winters.

Need help finding a contractor experienced with Ottawa municipal curb work? Ottawa Driveways can match you with professionals familiar with City specifications and permit requirements.