CITY OF FERNDALE RESOURCES:

Sidewalk Repair

Sidewalk repair issues outside of the regular district-based Sidewalk Replacement Program are generally handled through complaints or field observations. If a sidewalk is reported and DPW determines that it creates a safety issue, the adjacent property owner may be required to repair or replace the affected sidewalk.

Property Owner Responsibility

Property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks adjacent to their property in a safe and passable condition. When a sidewalk defect is identified outside the regular program, the City may send a repair notice requiring the property owner to correct the issue, typically within 30 days.

 

Before beginning sidewalk repair work, contact:

  • Building Department for permit requirements
  • DPW for pre-pour and post-pour inspection scheduling
  • DPW for questions about whether replacement is required

When Repairs are Required

Repairs may be required when sidewalk conditions create a hazard, including:

 

  • Significant cracking
  • Vertical separations or trip hazards
  • Holes or missing concrete
  • Severe pitting
  • Drainage problems
  • Unsafe slope
  • Other hazardous deterioration

DPW Inspections

Property owners or contractors must contact DPW to schedule:

  • A pre-pour inspection before concrete is placed
  • A post-pour inspection after work is complete

These inspections are required to confirm that the work meets City standards.

Homeowner-Performed Work

Property owners may ask about completing sidewalk replacement themselves. Residents considering this option should contact DPW before beginning work.

 

Sidewalk replacement requires proper preparation, forming, concrete placement, finishing, curing, and inspection. Work that does not meet City standards may be rejected and may need to be corrected or replaced.

Patching and Grinding

Patching is not accepted as a long-term alternative when the sidewalk has been damaged beyond repair or has been identified as a safety hazard.

 

Grinding or sawcutting may only be appropriate in limited cases where the defect is minor and the sidewalk otherwise remains in acceptable condition. DPW determines whether sawcutting is appropriate.

Concrete Standards

Sidewalk thickness depends on location and use.

 

Typical standards include:

  • 4-inch concrete for standard residential sidewalk
  • 6-inch concrete through residential driveway areas
  • 8-inch concrete where heavier vehicle use is expected, such as certain commercial driveway areas

Additional specifications may apply depending on the location and conditions.