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

Chapter 21, Part 2 of the Bristol Borough Code puts sidewalk work on the abutting owner. Section 21-201 requires every owner of property in the Borough of Bristol, on 20 days' notice from the Borough Council, to construct or reconstruct a sidewalk in front of and alongside the property, along any street on which it abuts. Section 21-202 requires every owner, on five days' notice from the Borough Council, to repair the sidewalk in the manner stipulated in the notice. Notices can be written, printed, or partly each (§ 21-203).

The Part sets the standards. Under § 21-204, sidewalks are built, rebuilt and repaired of concrete only, to specifications set by the Borough Engineer. A bituminous surface can be applied as a protective coating only where an entire block of concrete does not have to be replaced, and where a block must be replaced it is replaced with concrete only. Existing brick sidewalks that are at least two-thirds in good repair can be repaired with brick. Section 21-205 requires every sidewalk to be at least five feet wide, and § 21-206 requires sidewalks built over coal cellars or other excavations to rest on iron or steel beams or girders, or stone or concrete arches, never wood or other perishable material.

The Borough Engineer decides what is needed. Under § 21-208, the Engineer determines whether a sidewalk must be reconstructed or repaired and which parts, can inspect during the work, and must visit whenever the owner asks. Within two days after finishing, the owner must notify the Engineer so the grade can be inspected. An owner can also start work without a notice by applying first to the Borough Engineer and following the line, grade and material rules (§ 21-209). Opening an existing sidewalk requires a permit from the Bristol Borough Inspector (§ 21-221).

If the owner does not act, § 21-211 lets the Borough proceed at law or in equity, have the work done and file liens for the cost, in addition to the penalties.