Ankeny, IA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Section 152.14 of the Ankeny Code of Ordinances bars three specific private encroachments onto sidewalks without City Council authorization. First, no one may build a stairway or passageway to a cellar or basement that occupies part of a sidewalk, or enclose part of a sidewalk with a railing, without permission granted by Council resolution. Second, cellar doors, gratings or vault covers on a sidewalk may only be kept open while actually in use, and must have adequate guards to protect the public. Third, any opening on or within six feet of a sidewalk must be properly protected or barricaded at all times.

The companion Section 152.13 applies the same Council-resolution requirement to building stairs or steps that occupy part of a sidewalk, meaning any permanent private structure projecting into the sidewalk right-of-way in Ankeny needs specific Council approval rather than a routine administrative permit. Section 152.10 separately requires anyone depositing material in a street or leaving a sidewalk in a dangerous condition during improvements to post lit barricades at each end of the affected sidewalk and any material pile, and that party bears liability for any resulting injury or damage.

Because these are Council-resolution approvals rather than over-the-counter permits, a property owner seeking to keep private stairs, a railing enclosure or a cellar entrance on a public sidewalk must bring the request before the full City Council for a vote, not simply file paperwork with staff.