County is Requiring a Paved Access or Approach: What You Need to Know

If your local county informed you that you must pave an approac/access, you might be wondering what that means and how to meet the requirements. Whether you’re a homeowner needing driveway paving or a contractor managing a property, it’s important to understand what an approach is, how to determine the specific requirements, and who can help with the installation.

What is an Approach?

An approach refers to the section of pavement that connects a public road or street to your private property—often where your asphalt driveway meets the county or state road. It’s the transition zone where vehicles enter or exit your property.

In rural and suburban areas, paved approaches connect homes, shops, or businesses to county roads. There are a couple of key reasons counties require them:

• To prevent gravel and debris from being tracked onto public roads from gravel driveways 
• To protect the edge of public roads from damage caused by vehicles repeatedly crossing or turning onto them 

As a trusted asphalt company and excavation contractor, we’re often called in to build these access points.

How Do I Find Out the Requirements?

To determine exactly what your county expects for your asphalt approach, you’ll need to contact your local Transportation Department. Counties typically provide guidelines outlining:

• Minimum width and length of the approach 
• Required asphalt paving thickness 
• Drainage considerations 
• Permit and inspection requirements 

You may also need to submit site plans or drawings for approval. As a full-service grading contractor, Blackstone Paving & Excavation can help with that process.

Who Can Install My Approach?

Installing a paved access isn’t a basic DIY job—it requires experience in both site preparation and asphalt paving. At Blackstone Paving & Excavation, we specialize in building county-approved approaches from the ground up.

Our work includes everything from excavation and grading to installing geotextile fabric (if needed), compacted rock base, and a durable layer of hot mix asphalt. We also ensure proper drainage solutions are in place to prevent runoff, erosion, or future asphalt repair needs.

Whether you’re installing a brand-new approach or replacing an older one, we’ll make sure it’s done right—and up to code.

What Size Does My Approach Need to Be?

The required size of your approach depends on:

• The width of your driveway or private entrance 
• The type of vehicles using the access (cars, trucks, delivery vehicles, etc.) 
• County-specific regulations for approach length, width, and slope 

Before you begin your project, make sure to verify the exact specifications with your county. As a local asphalt paving company serving Oregon, we’re familiar with local standards and can help ensure compliance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to move forward or have questions about paving your access or approach, don’t hesitate to reach out to Blackstone Paving & Excavation. We’re here to walk you through every step—from permits and site prep to finished asphalt paving—making the process smooth and stress-free.