Westland's Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles sidewalk & pedestrian rules a little differently. In Westland, Michigan, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Encroachment Permits

Westland, Michigan requires a written permit before any curb cut or sidewalk driveway crossing is made to reach private property from a public street.

Key details: Permit issuer: Director of public service. Min/max curb cut width: 10 to 30 feet. Min. distance to crosswalk: 5 feet. Min. distance between curb cuts: 25 feet (non-residential).

Constructing an unpermitted curb cut or crossing that violates the dimensional limits can result in the work being ordered removed or corrected at the property owner's expense under the director of public service's enforcement authority.

Sidewalk Repair

Westland, Michigan places the duty to build, maintain and repair abutting sidewalks and side-drive aprons on the adjacent landowner, with city repair-and-assess power if they don't.

Key details: Who repairs: Adjacent landowner. Repair notice period: 30 days. Appeal window: 10 days. Late charge if unpaid: 30 percent.

An unpaid city repair invoice becomes a lien against the property after 30 days, with an additional 30 percent late charge added to the assessed cost.

Obstruction Rules

Westland bars placing articles or obstructions in streets and sidewalks without a permit, with narrow exceptions for loading and parking.

Key details: Covers: Streets and sidewalks. Exception: Temporary loading/unloading. Exception: Lawful vehicle parking. Removal cost: Billed to abutting owner.

Placing an unpermitted obstruction violates § 90-2(b) and carries the Code's general penalty: up to a $500 fine and/or 90 days imprisonment, with each day a separate offense; the city can also remove the obstruction and bill the abutting owner under § 90-12.

The Bottom Line

Westland's sidewalk & pedestrian rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Westland is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Westland's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.