Allentown, PA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Sidewalk Repair (2026)

Section 545-13 of the Codified Ordinances requires owners of property fronting a dedicated, opened public street or alley to construct sidewalks, curbs, handicap ramps and driveway crossovers whenever a new structure is built, a nonresidential building is expanded, the street or alley is resurfaced or reconstructed, or the City Engineer deems it necessary for safety or drainage. C reinforces that even where a variance postpones new construction, the owner still must grade, seed and keep the existing sidewalk area passable for pedestrians. If an owner fails to act, Section 545-14 gives the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Engineering, authority to step in after notice: 30 calendar days for routine maintenance repairs, or 60 calendar days under the streets and pedestrian safety program before the City performs the work, certifies the cost to the City Solicitor, and places a lien on the property.

The City Engineer may waive curb or sidewalk requirements along a secondary-access alley where no public purpose would be served. Materials besides grass, concrete or brick pavers are barred from the right-of-way absent a special permit.