Reading, PA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit needed for
- curb, sidewalk, vault work
- Issued by
- Director of Public Works
- Fine for no permit
- $100 to $1,000
- Max jail term
- 30 days
- Fee schedule
- set in Chapter 212, Fees
Summary
Before setting curb, opening a sidewalk, or building a vault under one, Reading requires a permit from the Director of Public Works for any private encroachment into the public right-of-way.
No person, firm or corporation shall set any curbing, set any building, open any sidewalk, lay new sidewalk or relay old sidewalk or construct any vault under a sidewalk, until a permit has been obtained from the Director of the Department of Public Works or his/her designee. The Director or his/her designee is authorized and directed to establish such rules and regulations, as s/he deems necessary, for the proper control of the operations permitted relative to the issuance of such permit, subject to the approval of Council.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-8: Current through August 10, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Reading requires anyone who wants to set curbing, open or lay a sidewalk, or build a vault, areaway or basement stairs under a sidewalk -- private structures encroaching into the public right-of-way -- to first get a permit from the Director of Public Works. Applicants must submit a written application stating the work's location and purpose, and pay the fee schedule set in Chapter 212. The Director may set additional rules for how the work is carried out, subject to City Council approval. Work done without a permit, or that damages the curb or sidewalk, is a summary offense.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted curb or sidewalk work is a summary offense carrying a fine of $100 to $1,000 plus costs, or up to 30 days in jail, with each day of continued violation a separate offense and possible liens for City costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a vault or areaway under my Reading sidewalk?
What happens if I do curb or sidewalk work without a Reading permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Reading
Compare Reading to another location·View the Pennsylvania sidewalk & pedestrian rules overview
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