Ann Arbor, MI Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Sidewalk Repair (2026)
Key Facts
- Responsible party
- Abutting property owner
- Cost if city repairs
- Billed as special assessment
- Temporary exemption
- Jul 2022–Jun 2026, outside DDA
- Governing section
- City Code § 4:58
Summary
Ann Arbor law puts the duty to keep an abutting public sidewalk in good repair on the adjacent property owner, and the city can fix it and bill the owner as a special assessment if they don't.
Except as provided in subsections (B), (C), (D), and (E) of this section 4:58, all sidewalks within the city shall be kept and maintained in good repair by the owner of the land adjacent to and abutting upon the same, and if any owner shall neglect to keep and maintain the sidewalk...in good repair and safe for the use of the public, the said owner shall be liable to the city for any damages recovered against the city sustained by any person by reason of said sidewalk being unsafe and out of repair.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 26 Update 4).
Full Breakdown
Under City Code § 4:58, owners of land adjacent to a City of Ann Arbor sidewalk, in Washtenaw County, must keep it in good repair and are liable for injuries if they don't. If the Public Services Area Administrator finds repair is needed and the owner fails to act after notice, the city repairs the sidewalk and assesses the cost as a single-lot assessment against the property under § 1:292. A temporary exemption (July 2022–June 2026) applies to sidewalks outside the Downtown Development District that are adjacent to tax-paying property, unless a subdivision or condo agreement assigns the duty elsewhere.
Violations & Fines
An owner who neglects a damaged sidewalk is liable to the city for injury claims, and unpaid repair costs are collected as a lien-backed special assessment against the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has to fix a broken sidewalk in Ann Arbor?
Is every Ann Arbor property owner currently on the hook for repairs?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ann Arbor
Compare Ann Arbor to another location·View the Michigan sidewalk & pedestrian rules overview
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