Bethlehem, PA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

02(A) lists what cannot be placed in the right-of-way: any stand, stall, booth, showcase, vending machine, trash receptacle, banner, awning, awning post, swinging sign, post, pole, board or frame occupying or projecting over the City's streets, sidewalks, lanes, alleys, pavements, footways or rights-of-way, plus barrels, boxes, wares, goods, merchandise, brick, stone or lumber left standing there. The only built-in exception is a temporary awning that clears at least seven and one-half feet above the walking surface at its lowest point, an allowance dating to Ordinance 3009 (1985).

Subsection (B) adds a flat, separate prohibition on obstructing the streets, sidewalks, lanes, alleys, pavements, footways or rights-of-way. Subsection (D) hands day-to-day gatekeeping to the Director of Public Works, who reviews, schedules and grants final approval to all right-of-way activities, while block parties and parades are carved out to the Police Department instead. Subsection (E) preserves ordinary loading, unloading and delivery activity, subject to rules the Director and Police Commissioner set. Subsection (F) allows unpermitted activities that enhance the streetscape or generate community spirit, including First Amendment speech, so long as they do not interfere with public health, safety or welfare. S. Section 37403(16), which authorizes the City to prohibit street obstructions.