Southborough, MA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

Chapter 152 regulates what can sit on, under or be thrown onto Southborough's public sidewalks. Section 152-4 bars any person from breaking or digging up a public sidewalk, street or highway, or placing staging or any other temporary structure on one, without a written permit approved by the Select Board or its designee, or another board having charge of the streets. Before the permit expires, the holder must restore the sidewalk to its original condition or to a condition satisfactory to that board. A permit stays in force for the time the board specifies, and during the whole of every night, from sunset to sunrise, lighted lanterns and proper barriers must be placed to secure travelers from danger. The board that granted the permit has the right to revoke it at any time and can require a bond, before or after work begins or during its progress, to secure proper performance and to save the Town harmless from damage claims.

Section 152-9 covers snow: no person shall displace snow from privately owned land to a public way or public sidewalk, or so as to impede the operation of any fire hydrant. Section 152-7 bars coasting on or across any public sidewalk or street except at the times and in the places the Select Board designates. Section 152-5 requires a written permit from the Highway Superintendent for a driveway curb cut or roadway curb cut within a Town way, with restoration of any sidewalk or grassed area to the Superintendent's satisfaction and a bond the Superintendent can require. A person standing or loitering on a sidewalk so as to obstruct the passage of others is covered separately by § 117-1 in Chapter 117.