Greensboro, NC Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

Under N.C.G.S. 160A-296, the City of Greensboro must keep public sidewalks open for travel and free from unnecessary obstructions. Chapter 26 of the Greensboro Code of Ordinances, Streets and Sidewalks, establishes local rules requiring property owners to maintain the public sidewalk adjacent to their property in a condition free from obstructions, including overgrown vegetation, snow, ice, and debris. Parking a vehicle on a public sidewalk is a separate traffic violation enforced by the Greensboro Police Department Traffic Enforcement Division at (336) 373-2216. Placing merchandise, signs, construction materials, or other items on the sidewalk without authorization may also violate the ordinance. Construction projects that temporarily block sidewalks must provide pedestrian detour routes and may need a right-of-way encroachment permit. Greensboro follows ADA accessibility standards requiring a minimum clear path of travel on all public sidewalks. Property owners who allow trees, shrubs, or landscaping to encroach onto the sidewalk may receive a notice from Code Compliance requiring trimming to restore the required clearance. Violations can be reported through Greensboro 311 at (336) 373-2489.