Vestavia Hills, AL Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

Section 15-9 of the Code of Ordinances targets physical obstructions left on the city's paved public ways. Subsection (a) makes it unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to place rocks, stones or other obstructions, or to let them remain, on any part of the paved portion of a dedicated public street, alley or road, including curbs and gutters, that abuts property the person owns or occupies. Subsection (b) is broader: it separately bans obstructing the free passage of motor vehicles anywhere along the paved portion of a public street, road or alley, including roadways, curbs and gutters, whether the obstruction is rocks, stones or any other encroachment.

The one carve-out sits in subsection (c): a person may place rocks or other encumbrances on the unimproved shoulder of a dedicated public street, road or alley, but only if they're kept at least one foot from the edge of the improved surface and positioned so they don't interfere with or obstruct vehicular traffic on the improved portion. The section reaches beyond deliberate dumping; leaving material in place that blocks the paved surface or curb line is enough to violate it, and the abutting property owner or occupant bears responsibility for obstructions bordering their own frontage.