Las Vegas, NV Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing code
- LVMC 13.32.020
- Approval type
- Encroachment agreement/permit
- Routine approver
- Director of Community Development
- Appeal window
- 10 days after denial
- Notice before removal
- 10 days
Summary
Placing any structure or obstruction in a Las Vegas public right-of-way requires a City-approved encroachment agreement or permit.
It is unlawful for any person to erect, place or maintain any obstruction, or to cause or permit any obstruction to encroach within, upon, or over any public right-of-way, including any public street, public sidewalk, or public alley...An obstruction otherwise prohibited by Subsection (A) may be permitted by means of an encroachment agreement approved by the City in accordance with this Section...Approval by the City of an encroachment agreement:(1)Is entirely within the City's discretion.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 61).
Full Breakdown
Las Vegas Municipal Code 13.32.020 makes it unlawful to erect, place, or maintain any obstruction that encroaches on a public street, sidewalk, or alley without City approval. An unauthorized obstruction left in place more than ten days after notice is a separate offense for each day it remains. The City can permit the encroachment through an encroachment agreement, which the code treats as interchangeable with an encroachment permit, occupancy permit, or license agreement. Approval is discretionary: the Director of Community Development (or designee) signs off on routine items like signage, outdoor dining, landscaping, and fencing intrusions, while larger or contested encroachments go to the City Council. A denied administrative approval can be appealed to Council within ten days.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized obstruction after 10 days' notice to remove is a separate offense each day it remains; Metro, Community Development, and Public Works staff can issue the notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to put a sign or planter in the sidewalk area?
Who approves a Las Vegas encroachment agreement?
What happens if I don't get a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Las Vegas
Compare Las Vegas to another location·View the Nevada sidewalk & pedestrian rules overview
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Encroachment Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Clark County handle encroachment permits.