Kenosha, WI Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

045 of the Code of General Ordinances governs any encroachment on Kenosha's public right-of-way beyond ordinary use, from sidewalk sale racks to festival banners and outdoor display obstructions. Subsection A bars placing a banner, sign, decoration, or other obstruction in the right-of-way without the Director of Public Works' written permission, and the Common Council sets the fee schedule by resolution. Applicants file a City-authorized form with the City Clerk, who routes it to the Director of Public Works for written comment before the Committee on Public Safety and Welfare acts.

The application must identify the applicant, describe the location, size, construction, height, and duration of the obstruction, and attach an indemnity and hold-harmless agreement drafted by the City Attorney. Subsection C requires a minimum $1,000,000 single-limit liability and contractual liability policy naming the City, filed with the Clerk before the permit issues; the Committee may require higher limits case by case. Where the obstruction sits on private property that lawfully infringes on the right-of-way, such as a railroad bridge, the property owner's written permission must also be attached.

The Committee can impose reasonable conditions and can suspend or revoke a permit and order removal for a violation, giving the holder up to ten days to request a hearing, except where the obstruction is an immediate danger, in which case it can be removed first with a post-removal hearing offered. A denied applicant may appeal to the Common Council by filing a written notice with the City Clerk within five business days of the denial. 046.