Charlottesville, VA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

Section 28-12 of the Charlottesville City Code makes it unlawful for any person to obstruct a street or sidewalk, or the space vertically above it, with anything that hinders the passage of persons or vehicles. The general district court judge has discretion to treat every hour the obstruction continues as a separate offense, which multiplies exposure for a business that leaves furniture, merchandise or equipment on the sidewalk overnight.

The section carves out three narrow exceptions. Public utility companies holding a franchise may place poles as needed for their business, but only where the director of public works directs. Merchants receiving deliveries may stack goods on the sidewalk's outer margin, using no more space or time than necessary, as long as the public keeps free, easy and comfortable use of the walk; police officers may order goods moved immediately if they judge the sidewalk obstructed. Anyone holding and displaying a valid temporary-use permit issued under § 28-5 or a building permit under § 5-57 is also excused from the general obstruction ban.

Beyond the criminal exposure, § 28-12(b) makes anyone who places an obstruction civilly responsible for any resulting damage, and § 28-13 separately requires the police to report permanent obstructions to the director of public works, who can order the responsible party to remove them or have the city do it at that party's expense, plus court-imposed fines. The city's charter, at § 14(1)-(2), gives council the underlying authority to prevent and remove street encroachments and obstructions that this chapter implements.