Tamarac, FL Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Tamarac Code § 20-114 bans placing shrubbery, above-ground sprinklers, mailboxes, signs, tree trimmings, refuse, concrete blocks, coral rock, curbstones or any sharp-edged or poisonous material on the swale within ten feet of the paved right-of-way edge, since these items create road or pedestrian hazards. Section 20-115 separately makes the abutting property owner responsible for maintaining the driveway apron where it crosses the right-of-way. Section 20-116 carves out limited exceptions: bagged bulk trash may sit at the curb up to forty-eight hours before pickup, and mailboxes may go in the unpaved right-of-way when the postal service requires that placement for delivery.

Outside those exceptions, anyone wanting to place an object, structure or material on city right-of-way must go through Section 20-118: the city commission may grant a temporary, revocable permit or license only where the use is consistent with public health, safety and welfare, and the commission sets the application fee by resolution rather than in the code itself. Section 20-119 exempts the city itself, its agents and franchised utilities operating within their easements from these prohibitions. Community Development and code compliance enforce the chapter, and a special magistrate hears contested cases.

Because Chapter 20 sets no unique fine, a violation falls under the citywide general penalty, Tamarac Code § 1-13: a fine up to $500, up to ninety days, or both, with each day of a continuing encroachment charged as a separate offense.