In Bellevue, the city generally maintains public sidewalks. BCC 14.60 assigns responsibility for damage caused by abutting property trees or uses to the property owner.
Bellevue City Code Chapter 14.60 (Sidewalks) establishes that public sidewalks within the right-of-way are generally maintained by the City of Bellevue Transportation Department. However, when damage is caused by trees, landscaping, driveways, or utilities installed or maintained by the abutting property owner, the owner is responsible for repair. This includes sidewalk heaves caused by residential tree roots. The city's Trip Hazard Program inspects and repairs minor vertical displacement (under 1 inch) using ramping or grinding. Larger displacement may require full panel replacement. Property owners who receive a Notice to Repair must complete work within 60 days or the city will perform the work and bill the owner. Sidewalks damaged by city street trees are generally city responsibility. Property owners installing new driveway approaches or utility connections must use licensed contractors and obtain a Right-of-Way Use permit. Snow and ice removal is a separate obligation. Report sidewalk hazards at 425-452-6855 or via the MyBellevue app.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Bellevue's sidewalk repair rules stack up against other locations.
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