DAF Form 103: Base Civil Engineering Work Clearance Request – If you’re involved in civil engineering, construction, maintenance, or excavation projects on a U.S. Air Force installation, DAF Form 103 (formerly known as AF Form 103 or AF IMT 103) is a critical document. Titled Base Civil Engineering Work Clearance Request, this form ensures safe coordination of any work that could disrupt aircraft or vehicular traffic, base utility services, fire/intrusion alarm systems, or routine installation activities.
The official downloadable PDF is available directly from the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing site: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a4/form/daf103/daf103.pdf. Always use the most current version from this trusted source for compliance.
What Is DAF Form 103 and Why Is It Required?
DAF Form 103 serves as the formal request for clearance before starting civil engineering work on base. It coordinates activities across key base organizations to minimize disruptions, prevent accidents, protect utilities, and maintain operational readiness.
The form is mandatory for:
- Excavation or digging projects
- Utility work (overhead or underground)
- Pavement, drainage, or structural modifications
- Any contract or in-house work that might affect traffic flow, power, water, communications, alarms, or daily base operations
It helps identify potential conflicts early, ensures compliance with safety regulations, and documents approvals from affected parties. This process supports broader civil engineer operations under Department of the Air Force guidance, including DAFI 32-1001 on Civil Engineering Operations.
Proper use of the form reduces risks such as utility strikes, flightline disruptions, or safety incidents that could impact mission effectiveness.
Who Uses DAF Form 103?
- Base Civil Engineer (BCE) staff
- Civil engineering squadrons (CES)
- Contractors performing work on Air Force installations
- Facility managers, self-help program participants, and project requestors
- Units submitting work orders that involve physical alterations to base infrastructure
It often pairs with DAF Form 332 (Base Civil Engineer Work Request) as part of the overall project approval workflow. Many bases require the AF Form 103 (or DAF equivalent) after initial work requests are approved, especially for digs or utility disturbances.
Key Sections of DAF Form 103
The form is straightforward and typically includes these main blocks (based on the standard layout; refer to the PDF for exact formatting and reverse-side instructions):
- Header / Request Details
- Date prepared
- Location of the proposed work
- Work Order No. and/or Contract No.
- Requester information
- Type of Facility/Work Involved
Check all that apply, such as:- Pavements
- Drainage systems
- Utilities (water, sewer, electrical, gas, communications – overhead or underground)
- Structures or buildings
- Other (specify)
- Description of Work
Provide a clear, detailed description of the project, including scope, methods (e.g., powered equipment, hand digging), depth of excavation, and any attached sketches or drawings. - Duration and Schedule
- Proposed start and completion dates
- Estimated duration
- Coordination and Clearances
Signatures or approvals from impacted organizations, including:- Safety
- Fire Department
- Communications
- Transportation / Traffic Management
- Operations
- Utility shops
- Other relevant base agencies
- Safety and Protective Measures
Details on how the work will protect utilities, mark dig areas (often with white paint or flags per local policy), restore the site, and comply with excavation safety standards (e.g., calling One-Call systems where applicable). - Remarks / Additional Information
Space for notes, attachments, or special conditions.
The reverse side of the form usually contains detailed instructions for completion and coordination steps.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out and Submit DAF Form 103?
- Prepare Supporting Documents — Gather work order details, sketches, utility locates, and any prior DAF Form 332 approval.
- Complete the Form — Fill in all required blocks accurately. Be specific about location, scope, and potential impacts. Mark the exact dig area on base maps or with physical markings (white paint/flags) as required by your installation.
- Coordinate with Stakeholders — Route the form through the Base Civil Engineer’s office. They typically handle coordination with other base agencies and may contact state One-Call (e.g., Wyoming One-Call or local equivalent) for off-base utility notifications where needed.
- Obtain Approvals — Secure signatures from all affected organizations before work begins.
- Submit and Track — Submit through your local CE Customer Service or designated focal point (e.g., CES/CEOER sections). Retain copies for project records.
- Post-Work Requirements — Restore the site to original condition and notify CE upon completion.
Tip: Many bases provide local supplements or playbooks outlining the exact coordination process. Contact your installation’s Civil Engineer Squadron for installation-specific guidance.
Common Reasons for Delays or Rejections
- Incomplete descriptions or missing attachments
- Failure to mark dig areas properly
- Uncoordinated impacts on critical systems (e.g., flightline, alarms)
- Lack of safety measures or utility locates
- Scheduling conflicts with ongoing operations
Early submission and thorough coordination help avoid these issues.
Download the Official DAF Form 103
Access the current blank, fillable PDF here:
DAF Form 103 – Base Civil Engineering Work Clearance Request
For additional Air Force forms and publications, visit the official e-Publishing website.
Best Practices for Air Force Civil Engineering Projects
- Always start with a DAF Form 332 work request if required by your base.
- Integrate DAF Form 103 into your project planning early.
- Prioritize safety and mission impact minimization.
- Document everything—approvals, utility locates, and site restoration.
- Check for local instructions (e.g., 90 MWI 32-301 or base-specific playbooks) that may add requirements.
Following these steps ensures your project proceeds safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with Department of the Air Force standards.
Need Help?
Contact your local Base Civil Engineer Squadron (BCE) customer service desk or facility manager for assistance with DAF Form 103 or related processes. For policy questions, refer to DAFI 32-1001 and other civil engineering instructions available on e-Publishing.
This guide is for informational purposes and draws from official Air Force sources. Always verify the latest form version and installation policies, as procedures can vary by base.