Under Dallas Code Chapter 43, Article III, abutting property owners are responsible for repairing defective sidewalks and driveways. Section 43-63 requires owners to replace sidewalks that become defective, unsafe, or hazardous. Property owners are also liable for injuries caused by defective sidewalks under Section 43-33.
Dallas Code of Ordinances Chapter 43, Article III governs construction and repair of sidewalks, curbs, and driveway approaches. Section 43-63 places the duty on abutting property owners to repair defective sidewalks or driveways when they become unsafe or hazardous. Section 43-33 establishes liability of abutting property owners for injuries caused by defective sidewalks. The city may order repairs and, if the owner fails to comply, the city may perform the work and assess the cost against the property. Dallas does not offer a 50/50 cost-sharing program like some other cities; the full repair cost falls on the property owner. Sidewalk specifications must meet city engineering standards including minimum 4-inch thickness for residential walks. The city prioritizes ADA-accessible routes and may initiate repairs on major pedestrian corridors.
Failure to repair defective sidewalks after city notice may result in the city performing repairs and placing a lien on the property for the cost. Property owners may also face civil liability for injuries caused by defective sidewalks under Section 43-33. Code Compliance can issue citations for non-compliant sidewalks.
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