The following information provides property owners with the procedures and various options to insure the safety and maintenance of public sidewalks within the City of Ann Arbor.
Three Reasons to Repair Your Public Sidewalk:
- Children, the elderly, and the physically challenged use our sidewalks daily.
Poorly maintained sidewalks carry high risks for injury. Your help is appreciated to make sure all residents may travel safely along our sidewalks.
- City Code (chapters 47 and 49) requires property owners to properly maintain
the sidewalks and public walkways adjacent or abutting their property for the use of the public.
- Properly maintained sidewalks contribute to the livability and aesthetic image of our City.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Whose responsibility is it to maintain and repair the public sidewalks and walkways?
A: Per City Code, Chapter 49, Section 4:58, all sidewalks within the city shall be kept and maintained in good repair by the owner of the adjacent land.
How do I report a sidewalk that needs repair? How can I check if my sidewalk needs repair?
A: You simply talk with the city’s Customer Service Center at (734) 994-2493. This call will trigger a request to the Technical Services Unit for a sidewalk inspection. If repairs are needed, the City will notify the property owner by letter of the specific requirements to bring the sidewalk into compliance.
What if the sidewalk damage appears to be caused by tree roots?
A: Please call (734) 994-2768 to initiate an inspection by a staff person from forestry to see if a problematic root can be removed without endangering the stability and health of the tree. The concrete must be removed by the contractor before the tree root inspection can be made. The property owner is still responsible for the sidewalk repair costs.
More Information on City Sidewalk Repair: