Palo Alto, CA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

Santa Clara County requires public sidewalks to remain fully passable for pedestrians, including those using wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. California Vehicle Code 22500(f) prohibits parking any vehicle on or overhanging a sidewalk and is enforceable countywide. Property owners must trim hedges, trees, and shrubs so that no vegetation overhangs the sidewalk below 8 feet in height or narrows the pedestrian path below the standard 4-foot ADA minimum. Trash cans, recycling bins, and yard waste containers cannot remain on sidewalks outside of collection day windows. Merchants, contractors, and moving companies placing dumpsters, PODS containers, or displays on sidewalks need an encroachment permit. Construction projects must maintain a safe pedestrian path or provide a signed detour. Sidewalk sales, sandwich board signs, and commercial displays are generally prohibited without permit. Violations can trigger administrative citations starting around 100 dollars.