Broward County and its municipalities prohibit obstructing public sidewalks with vegetation, merchandise, signs, or vehicles, requiring a minimum 4-foot clear pedestrian path and ADA-compliant passage.
Broward County and municipal codes require property owners to maintain clear sidewalks free of overgrown vegetation, low tree branches below 8 feet, signs, merchandise, debris, and vehicles. A minimum clear pedestrian path of 4 feet is typically required, with 5 feet preferred for ADA compliance. Temporary obstructions for construction, deliveries, or events require a right-of-way use permit from the city or county, typically costing $50-250 with insurance requirements. Outdoor dining and sidewalk cafes require separate permits and must maintain required clearance. Violations typically result in a courtesy notice followed by fines of $50-500 per day if uncorrected. Parking vehicles across sidewalks is universally prohibited.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Broward County's obstruction rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.