Sidewalks in your neighborhood
Is there a broken or unsafe sidewalk in your neighborhood? The responsibility for repairs generally fall on the homeowner or adjacent property owner, but the City does have some funds set aside to help with repair costs. Funding is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 591-5104 for more information.
Frequently asked sidewalk questions
What is an unfit or unsafe sidewalk?
The sidewalk is in the City street right-of-way. Isn't the City responsible for its condition?
Why did the City inspect my sidewalk?
Why did I get a notification letter and what happens if I ignore it?
I don't think my sidewalk looks bad. Why should I replace it?
How do I get an unfit/unsafe sidewalk replaced?
Does the City offer any financial assistance to property owners who must repair their sidewalks?
What is an unfit or unsafe sidewalk?
Sidewalks with sections that are sunken or lifted up or areas with large cracks are considered unfit or unsafe according to City Code. Sidewalks that have a poor appearance, but are otherwise physically sound, are not considered unsafe.
Typically, sidewalk damage is caused by tree roots, the settling of the ground underneath the sidewalk, vehicles parked illegally on the sidewalk and age.
The sidewalk is in the City street right-of-way. Isn't the City responsible for its condition?
No. State law allows certain cities to transfer sidewalk replacement responsibility to the adjacent property owner. The City Council has adopted this policy by ordinance.
Why did the City inspect my sidewalk?
The City inspects sidewalks when citizens inform us of problems, when City employees notice unsafe areas or when pedestrians file injury claims. After receiving a complaint, inspectors investigate the site.
Why did I get a notification letter and what happens if I ignore it?
City employees mark sidewalks that are unsafe and will send a notification letter to homeowners advising them to replace or repair the sidewalk. If you don't respond to a notification letter, the City can add your name to a Sidewalk Abatement List. This means the City Council, by resolution, may authorize the Public Works Department to replace the sidewalk adjacent to your address and charge you for the full cost of the repairs.
I don't think my sidewalk looks bad. Why should I replace it?
Even slight defects in sidewalks can cause pedestrian injuries. Sidewalk maintenance is important for appearance and value, but more importantly, it may save a pedestrian from an injury and you from an expensive lawsuit.
E-mail contact for this page: Public Works