Columbia, MO Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 24-41, Code of Ordinances
- Permit issuer
- Director of Public Works
- Short closures
- ≤30 days, administrative approval
- Long closures
- City council OK required, § 22-45
Summary
Before building, repairing, or altering any sidewalk, curb, curb cut, or driveway in the public right-of-way, Columbia, Missouri property owners in Boone County must get a public works permit.
(a)No person shall construct, reconstruct, repair, alter or grade any sidewalk, curb, curb cut, driveway or street on the public streets or rights-of-way without first obtaining a permit from the director of public works.(b)No person shall close a public street, sidewalk, parking lane, traffic lane or alley in connection with a construction project without first obtaining a permit under this division. If the closure is for thirty (30) days or less the permit may be issued by the director of public works as set forth in this division. If the closure is for more than thirty (30) days, the permit must be authorized by the city council as set forth in section 22-45 prior to issuance of the permit. (Ord. No. 23013, § 1, 12-5-16)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 138).
Full Breakdown
Columbia Code of Ordinances § 24-41(a) bars anyone from constructing, reconstructing, repairing, altering, or grading a sidewalk, curb, curb cut, driveway, or street on public streets or rights-of-way without first obtaining a permit from the director of public works. Section 24-41(b) extends the permit requirement to closing a public street, sidewalk, parking lane, traffic lane, or alley for a construction project: closures of 30 days or less can be approved administratively by the director, but any closure longer than 30 days needs city council authorization under § 22-45 before the permit issues.
Violations & Fines
Doing right-of-way work, a driveway apron, sidewalk replacement, curb cut, without the § 24-41 permit exposes the responsible party to Columbia's general misdemeanor penalty: up to $500, up to 90 days confinement, or both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to replace my driveway apron in Columbia, Missouri?
Can I close the sidewalk in front of my Columbia business for construction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Columbia
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