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

Porterville Municipal Code section 20-1.2 makes it an infraction to construct or affix any structure, sign, canopy, awning, lighting fixture, or other device, equipment or fixture that projects into the public right of way beyond the property line of a building site without first obtaining city council approval through an encroachment agreement. The exception is limited to property within Porterville redevelopment project area no. 1 under section 20-57. Section 20-1.3 defines the encroachment agreement itself as an agreement between the city and a real property owner permitting that owner to construct or place temporary or permanent improvements, structures, signs, awnings, fences, fixtures, or other similar appurtenant structures within the city-owned right of way adjacent to the described property, subject to the terms, covenants and conditions written into the agreement.

Because approval runs through the city council rather than a staff-level permit desk, an encroachment agreement functions as a discretionary land-use instrument rather than a simple counter permit. Property owners in Porterville who want to keep an awning, sign, fence or fixture extending past their property line into the sidewalk or street right of way must secure council approval first; anything installed without it violates section 20-1.2 outright, regardless of how long it has been in place or whether it interferes with travel.