Potholes – Standard Operating Procedure

The City of Smyrna has defined operating procedures in reference to pothole damage located in/on City maintained roadways. If a pothole forms in the roadway due to a utility cut (area where City crews worked on a utility repair or project) and after complete investigation by City staff which will include photos of the area in question, reimbursement may be approved by the Director of Public Works or a damage claim may be forwarded to the City’s risk management department for further investigation and/or payment.

It is the sole responsibility of the person filing the report of damage to provide photos of damage to the City of Smyrna Public Works Department as soon as possible. An incident report (police report) will need to be made by the person making complaint/claim through the City of Smyrna Police Department and a copy of the report must be provided to the Smyrna Public Works Department in order to complete the damage claim.

If a pothole forms due to natural wear and tear, including storm damage or heat and cold stress or asphalt or underground infrastructure, the City will not cover any damage claims related to such incidences.