Knowledge Base

FAQs

What prompted the City to implement a Sidewalk Inspection Program?       
The inspection program was initiated in response to a lawsuit against the City in a sidewalk case which ruled that City’s have a duty to inspect their sidewalks, and may be found negligent if they do not have an ongoing inspection program. The enabling City Ordinance was passed on October 3, 1988. In the past, the City relied on citizen input, police incident reports, and chance observation by City employees.

What areas are to be inspected, and how is the route determined?
Public sidewalks in the vicinity of public buildings and facilities were the first to be inspected and replaced. When the Sidewalk Inspection Program was initially implemented, we inspected high pedestrian streets, and streets located around schools. Currently, the City inspects sidewalks abutting the streets resurfaced the year before by the Public Works Department. 

When do inspections take place? Who does the inspections?
Inspections are performed during the spring, summer and fall of each year.

How many streets are inspected each year?
Each year the City inspects approximately 10-12 miles of sidewalk.

What types of defects are marked during an inspection? 
The City is essentially looking for tripping hazards. (Standards for Defective Sidewalks/Approaches are listed above in the hazardous sidewalks section above).

How do I know if my property has been inspected?
If you are on the current year inspection program, you will be sent an advance notification letter
advising of the approximate month your street will be inspected. At the time of inspection, if you have defects, they will be marked in white paint by an Inspector. A door tag advising that an inspection was done will be left at your residence. In a few days you will receive a certified notice advising of defects and giving you additional information on how to proceed.

What if there is a tree causing the defect in the sidewalk?
Trees located between the sidewalk and the curbs are also owned by the City. It is the City’s intent to save as many trees as possible. The City Forester will inspect the tree and-make a determination if that tree should be removed or worked around. If the decision is to remove the tree, it will be done at City cost. If it is directed by the City Forester to work around the tree, an inspector will work with the property owner and/or contractor on various modifications of the sidewalk. If it is determined that the tree will not be removed, and the tree damages the sidewalk in the future, the City will then remove the tree and replace the sidewalk at City cost.

How long does the property owner have to make the repairs?
The property owner is given thirty (30) days to make the repairs.

Is there any financial assistance available to help defray the cost of sidewalk maintenance?
Financial assistance is available to owner-occupied properties who meet specific income guidelines.

What happens if a property owner does not perform required work? 
The City is authorized to contract this work, and the cost will be assessed against your property in the same manner as property taxes

Who can perform the required work?
A licensed, insured contractor may perform this work. City of Dubuque Standard Specifications must be complied with, and a permit obtained.