Houston, TX Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

City Code Sec. 40-362 makes it unlawful to place, cause, or allow any impairment or obstruction of a sidewalk or roadway unless authorized by a permit. A private building encroachment onto the right-of-way is only a defense to prosecution if the abutting owner holds a current, valid permit or other authorization obtained from city council. Routine permits are issued by the traffic engineer under Division 2 of this article; applications go in at least ten business days ahead and require insurance, a traffic control plan, and an indemnification agreement. Unpermitted obstructions are subject to summary abatement, with removal costs billed to the responsible party.