Texarkana, TX Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Sidewalk zone
- CB central business district only
- Minimum clear width
- 4 feet unobstructed
- Minimum license fee
- $200 one-time
- Liability insurance
- $1M/$500K minimum
- Appeal window
- 5 days after denial
Summary
Placing tables, signs, or other items on a Texarkana sidewalk requires a city right-of-way license, and sidewalk encumbrances are allowed only in the CB central business district.
(d) License to encumber right-of-way or easements....(1)The right to encumber the public right-of-way may be granted only by license and every grantee of a license shall agree to indemnify and hold the city harmless from any and all damages to persons or property or both...(1-a)The right to encumber a public sidewalk shall be restricted to the CB central business district and shall be subject to these additional criteria: ...Placed in such a manner as to leave a minimum unobstructed sidewalk width of four feet, a minimum of one foot away from the curb line or edge of vehicular traveled way...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 27).
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 130-5, nothing may encroach on a city street, sidewalk, alley, or easement without a right-of-way license from the public works department. Sidewalk encumbrances are restricted to the CB central business district, must be tied to the front of the licensed business, and have to leave at least a 4-foot clear path with 1 foot of setback from the curb. Approved items are limited to chairs, benches, tables, window boxes, railings, and one sandwich-board sign. Licenses are non-transferable and require a certificate of insurance naming the city as co-insured.
Violations & Fines
The director of public works or a code enforcement officer can revoke a sidewalk license without notice for a violation or a deteriorated encumbrance; unlicensed obstructions may be removed by the city under Sec. 130-6, with cost recovery and court enforcement available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put tables or a sign on the sidewalk outside my Texarkana business?
What if I encroach on a Texarkana right-of-way without a license?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Texarkana
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Texarkana to another location·View the Texas sidewalk & pedestrian rules overview
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