What is sidewalk rule?

Sidewalk rules are generally governed by local ordinances and may vary significantly depending on the city, state, or even neighborhood. However, some common aspects of sidewalk rules include:

  • Pedestrian Right-of-Way: Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way on sidewalks. This means cyclists, skateboarders, and other non-pedestrian traffic should yield to people walking.

  • Obstruction: Sidewalks should be kept free of obstructions. This can include parked cars, merchandise displays from businesses, construction materials, and overgrown vegetation.

  • Business Use: Businesses often have specific regulations regarding sidewalk use for outdoor seating, displays, or advertising. Permits are often required.

  • Vending: Street vending is usually regulated, and vendors may need permits to operate on sidewalks.

  • Animals: Many jurisdictions have rules about leashing pets on sidewalks and cleaning up after them.

  • Accessibility: Sidewalks must comply with accessibility standards, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), to ensure they are usable by people with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

  • Snow and Ice Removal: Property owners are often responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property within a specified timeframe after a snowfall.

  • Construction: Construction projects affecting sidewalks typically require permits and must provide safe pedestrian detours.

  • Loitering: Some areas have ordinances against loitering or obstructing pedestrian traffic on sidewalks.