Annapolis, MD Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- Director of Public Works
- Fine
- $100 per day
- Covers
- streets, alleys, sidewalks, footways
- Permit fee
- nonrefundable
Summary
Annapolis bars obstructing any public street, alley, sidewalk or footway without a permit from the Director of Public Works, who sets the conditions and time limit for each permit granted.
A person may not obstruct any of the public streets, lanes, alleys, sidewalks or footways without first obtaining a permit from the Director of Public Works. The permit, when granted, in every case shall prescribe the conditions under which the permit is granted and shall prescribe the length of time that the space may be occupied or otherwise utilized.B.Upon approval, the applicant shall pay a nonrefundable permit fee with an additional fee for each extension or change to the original permit as established by resolution of the City Council.C.Any person who violates this section is guilty of a municipal infraction and is subject to a fine as established by resolution of the City Council. (Ord. O-5-04 § 1 (part), 2004; Ord. O-16-99 § 1 (part): Ord. O-28-91 § 1 (part): prior code § 19-9)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 2025 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Section 14.20.010 of the Annapolis City Code prohibits obstructing public streets, lanes, alleys, sidewalks or footways without first getting a permit from the Director of Public Works, who dictates the conditions and how long the space may be occupied. The permit fee is nonrefundable, with an added fee for any extension or change, both set by City Council resolution. Related sections in the same chapter address specific obstructions: sidewalk sales are capped at 25% of sidewalk width and barred within six feet of the curb (§ 14.20.070), and building projections such as steps or bay windows can't extend more than a quarter of the distance to the curb (§ 14.20.080).
Violations & Fines
Obstructing a street, sidewalk, alley or footway without a permit is a municipal infraction under § 14.20.010(C), fined $100 per day the violation continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to put something on an Annapolis sidewalk?
What's the penalty for obstructing a sidewalk without a permit in Annapolis?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Annapolis
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