Kalamazoo, MI Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

Section 33-2 of the Code of Ordinances bars any person from placing, or allowing to be placed, a sign, structure, wire, encumbrance, encroachment, merchandise, or any other obstruction upon, in or over a street, alley, sidewalk or crosswalk in the City if it impedes, obstructs or prevents full, clear and free passage over the entire width of the way. The prohibition does not apply where the City has issued a license or permit authorizing that specific use of the right-of-way, such as an outdoor sidewalk cafe or a licensed vendor space.

Related provisions in the same chapter address adjacent obstructions: § 33-3 bars erecting fences or barricades in a street or alley without written City Manager approval, and § 33-7 prohibits occupying the space under a sidewalk without a City Commission resolution granting permission. Damaging, destroying or removing a sidewalk, crosswalk or driveway without first getting permission from the Department of Public Works is separately barred under § 33-15. No specific penalty is written into § 33-2 itself, so the citywide default penalty for Code violations applies.