The City Commission has recently approved a pair of changes that benefit residents needing sidewalk repairs.
Commissioners voted to enact a temporary waiver for right-of-way permit fees for sidewalk repairs, and also approved an ordinance change that extends the permit window to finish work once the permit is issued from 90 days to 180.
Additional discussion regarding sidewalk repair-related rules will be discussed at future meetings, possibly resulting in additional changes.
The window for the waivers opened Sept. 15 of this year and lasts until Nov. 14. During that time, anyone needing to repair or replace sidewalk panels can obtain the permit without paying the fee, the costs for which typically range from $207 to $413, depending on the type of permit needed.
Residents also have a new option potentially available to address issues. If conditions allow, residents can use “sidewalk grinding” for repairs. This work can be performed without prior staff approval, but the right-of-way permit is still required.
Sidewalk grinding is generally considered “feasible” when any amount of concrete will remain existing in good condition and is sloped meeting ADA requirements.
In order to prevent tripping hazards and remain in compliance with Americans With Disability Act requirements, any sidewalk panel that is one-quarter inch or higher than the adjacent panel should be addressed. These regulations are enforced through a “complaint-driven” process, meaning City representatives do not inspect sidewalks looking for violations.
If you have additional questions about sidewalk regulations or repairs, you can contact Public Works at (971) 204-4601 or via email at ocpublicworks@orcity.org.
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