Knowledge Base

Fiber to the Home/business Aesthetic Standards

Below are the standards private utilities are to follow for work in the right of way regarding fiber, phone and internet facilities.

1. Flush mount handholes in the front yard if no other pedestals are present.
2. No above ground pedestals in historic districts.
3. All flush mount handholes should be marked with name of utility.
4. If other above ground pedestals exist, the pedestals are to be clustered near each other.
5. No pedestals that serve a residential home can exceed 3 feet in height.
6. All above ground pedestals should be screened with vegetation.
7. Color of pedestals should be of uniform color and not contrasting with the neighborhood (no gawdy colors that clash, colors need to be complimentary with turf and surrounding vegetation).
8. All pedestals should be marked with name of utility.
9. All construction of handholes and pedestals should have adjoining disturbed turf restored promptly and in the same or better condition than before construction started. Contractor is required to maintain turf until it is established.
10. Where rear easements exist or available, that is the preferred path for fiber to the home.
11. If alleys exist, prefer the path follow the alley and serve from the rear yard.
12. Depth of utilities need to follow Iowa State standards for utility depth.
13. All utility vehicles need to be properly signed with the name of the utility.
14. When performing work in the neighborhood, the utility needs to coordinate traffic control with City of Dubuque Engineering. Proper street signs are to be used and follow MUTCD standards.
15. All traffic signs are to be supplied by the contractor or contracted. All signs are to be in good condition and have proper reflective properties per MUTCD.