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Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules

Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules in Winston-Salem, NC: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in Winston-Salem or are thinking about moving there, sidewalk & pedestrian rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Winston-Salem has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of sidewalk & pedestrian rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Sidewalk Repair

In Winston-Salem, the tenant or occupant of any property bordering a street with an abutting sidewalk must keep that sidewalk clean, including clearing snow or sleet within two hours after it stops falling.

Key details: Who's responsible: Tenant/occupant first, then owner. Snow removal deadline: Within 2 hours after snowfall ends. Overnight snowfall deadline: By 12:00 noon next day. Penalty: Class 3 misdemeanor, up to $500. Governing section: Code of Ordinances § 74-12.

Violating any part of section 74-12 is a class 3 misdemeanor under G.S. 14-4, punishable by a fine of up to $500.00 per offense.

Obstruction Rules

Winston-Salem bans blocking sidewalks, streets, bridges or walkways in any way that stops pedestrians or vehicles from passing freely.

Key details: Governing section: City Code § 74-17. Max fine: $500.00 per offense. Penalty class: Class 3 misdemeanor. Free-speech carve-out: Stopping to talk is allowed.

Class 3 misdemeanor under G.S. 14-4; fine up to $500.00 per offense.

Encroachment Permits

Winston-Salem requires an encroachment permit for anything built under, above, or across a public street or sidewalk, issued by the public works office only if it won't endanger the public or block traffic.

Key details: Permit issuer: Assistant city manager/public works. Standard: No safety or traffic impairment. Beyond staff authority: City council approval. Repair/removal window: 60 days after notice. Max fine: $500.00.

Failing to obey a removal or repair order is a class 3 misdemeanor under G.S. 14-4, punishable by a fine up to $500.00 per § 74-103(d); each day of noncompliance can count separately.

The Bottom Line

Winston-Salem'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 Winston-Salem is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Winston-Salem can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.