Petaluma, CA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

100 makes it unlawful to encroach on, in, over or under any city-owned or controlled real property, including alleys, sidewalks and easements, with any structure or object, temporary or permanent. 120 sets the application process: the property owner, or someone lawfully entitled to use the property, applies in the owner's name, the application is acknowledged by the applicant, and must describe the proposed encroachment, the city property involved, and the applicant's interest in the adjoining property. Applications are filed in duplicate with the superintendent of streets and referred to the planning and building departments for a recommendation; the superintendent may deny or condition the permit if the proposed encroachment would create a dangerous condition or interfere with public health, safety or convenience.

110, including legally created access from a parcel to a public street, encroachments the city itself agreed to by written contract, and those already authorized under a development approval granted under the zoning or subdivision ordinance. 150 an unauthorized encroachment left in place more than thirty days after the city's notice is declared a nuisance and an infraction, with a fine set under California Government Code Section 36900, plus the city's cost of removing it and reasonable attorney's fees if it goes to court.