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

Chapter 157 of the Haverford Township Code, Streets and Sidewalks, puts the duty to keep sidewalks open on the abutting owner. Section 157-8 requires all owners of property abutting upon the highways to keep the sidewalks in front of, along or upon their premises or lots in good order and repair, to keep all water, gas, sewer or drain stop boxes or vent boxes level with the sidewalk, and to keep the sidewalk at all times free and clear from obstruction to safe and convenient passage.

When an owner does not act, the Highway Committee of the Board of Commissioners can, on notice of the condition, cause the sidewalk to be repaired or any obstruction to be removed. The cost, together with a penalty of 10%, is charged to the property owner under § 157-7. If the bill is not paid within 30 days from its date, the amount is collected in the manner prescribed by law, constitutes a lien against the property, and a municipal claim is filed by the Solicitor.

Article V of the same chapter, Snow and Ice Removal, adopted on March 8, 2010 as Ord. No. 2599, adds two obstruction rules. Section 157-33A makes it unlawful for a property owner, resident, or the owner's contractor, agent or employee to shovel, plow, discharge or otherwise place snow removed from private property into any street, roadway, sidewalk or alley within the Township of Haverford. Section 157-33B makes it unlawful to pump, discharge or otherwise direct any water or other material that would permit an icing condition from private property into or across any street, roadway, sidewalk or alley. Clearing your own walk therefore cannot mean piling the snow on the neighbor's walk or in the street.

Separately, § 138-3 requires owners or persons in possession of premises in the built-up sections of the Township to remove snow from the sidewalk in front of their premises within 24 hours after the snowfall and at all times to keep the sidewalks free and clear of snow, slush and ice. New sidewalks and curbs in front of property on a highway or street need a permit from the Board of Commissioners under § 157-9, with a fee fixed by resolution and the location, grade and specifications set by the Township Engineer.