Revere, MA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

250 requires written permission from the City Council before anyone places or maintains a projection over the public way, defined to include an awning, marquee, shade, frame, sign or signboard. Before applying to the council, the applicant must first go through Site Plan Review and receive approval to construct. The council application must include detailed plans showing the structure's size, construction and support method, a color sample for any awning, a statement from Site Plan Review confirming the project meets the state building code and this section, and a business liability insurance policy naming the city as an additional insured with a limit of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence.

On the specifications side, a projection can extend a maximum of 36 inches over the public way, its lowest point must sit at least nine feet above the sidewalk, an awning cannot run longer than the storefront it covers, and multiple awnings on one building must match in size, shape, material and lettering. Awning materials must be a solid color, matte finish, vinyl-coated, cotton or acrylic-coated, never shiny or high gloss, and every projection must be kept clean, legible and free of peeling, warping or graffiti, with awning fabric kept taut.

The Building Inspector enforces the section, and the City Council can suspend or revoke a permit for cause, but only after notifying the owner of the grounds and holding a public hearing. O. 25-266 on December 1, 2025.