Chattanooga, TN Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Sec. 32-7 makes it unlawful to erect a sign, pillar, post, or column on any city sidewalk without a permit from the Transportation Department, and specifically bars any such permit for placement on the curb or on the pavement of the sidewalk itself. Sec. 32-8 similarly requires a permit before hanging an awning, gallery, or other projection from a building over a sidewalk, with fixed height and clearance rules: movable drop awnings must clear at least 8 feet above the walk and stay 18 inches back from the curb. A permit issued outside these rules is void, and the encroachment must be removed on order of the city judge, per Sec. 32-9.