Orlando, FL Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

02 defines to include streets, parkways, sidewalks, and driveways: no encroachment shall be erected without prior City Council authorization or a Public Works Director permit. 02 defines an encroachment broadly as any object occupying a right-of-way that is not for the use and convenience of the general public, construction materials, portions of buildings or structures, fences, and ornamental structures, though it excludes federally approved mailboxes and approved driveways. Absent specific Council approval, a temporary encroachment requires a permit from the Public Works Director and Zoning Official, valid for no more than six months, though it can be renewed if the encroachment does not unreasonably restrict the public's use of the right-of-way and remains necessary for its stated purpose.

Applicants must describe the space to be used and how long it is needed; the amount, location, and controls over that space are left to the Public Works Director's discretion, subject to the Zoning Official's concurrence. The Director can revoke any encroachment permit, and the permit holder must then remove the encroachment and restore the right-of-way to its former condition within a reasonable time of being notified. Anyone using the right-of-way under a permit must place and keep approved lights and barricades from sunset to sunrise to protect the public, a nighttime visibility duty that runs alongside the removal obligation.