Kalamazoo, MI Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Kalamazoo City Code § 50-5.2A(7) addresses building elements that project beyond the required setback into the right-of-way, defining an encroachment as a building element such as a balcony, awning or sign that may be permitted to extend into that space. Where the zoning district and lot type allow it, the property owner must first obtain an encroachment agreement with the City before the element is installed; the section does not allow encroachments as a matter of right. Two numeric limits then apply: the encroaching element cannot extend closer than two feet from the back of the curbline, protecting the travel lane and any on-street parking, and it must maintain a minimum height clearance of eight feet above the sidewalk so pedestrians can pass safely underneath.

This differs from the separate encroachment permit required for sidewalk cafes under § 50-4.5D(10)(b); § 50-5.2A(7) instead governs permanent or semi-permanent building elements that project over the right-of-way. Community Planning and Economic Development, working with Public Services, reviews and issues these encroachment agreements.