Canton, OH Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Canton Codified Ordinances Section 1345.01 makes it unlawful for any person to encroach upon, obstruct or occupy any street, alley, sidewalk, public ground or land dedicated to public use by placing, building or erecting any fence, building or structure of any kind in, upon or over it, or to let such an encroachment remain once built. The section carves out an exception for signs, awnings and canopies that are constructed, erected and maintained in accordance with the City's other ordinances, which is where Chapter 1345's permit process comes in.

Section 1345.03(a) allows a canopy or marquee over a sidewalk only at the entrance of a hotel, church, hall, theater or other building where public assemblages occur, and caps its size: it cannot extend past the curbstone, cannot rest any part or support on the sidewalk or street, must clear at least nine feet above the sidewalk, and cannot rise more than four feet from its lowest to highest point. Section 1345.03(b) is the permit mechanism itself: before any canopy or marquee is erected, the building's owner must file an application and accompanying plans with the Chief Building Official.

The Official issues the permit only after being satisfied the structure conforms to the section and will not endanger the public, and issuance is conditioned on the applicant agreeing to hold the City harmless for any resulting damage to persons or property. The City also reserves the right to force removal of the canopy or marquee at any time on sixty days' written notice from the Chief Building Official, regardless of how long it has already stood.