Greenburgh, NY Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Sidewalk Repair (2026)

Chapter 430's Article VI puts the duty to keep a sidewalk in safe, usable condition on the abutting property owner. Section 430-17 states that the adjacent landowner of any property improved by a sidewalk or pedestrian walkway, or the occupant if the owner is not in possession, is liable for any injury or damage caused by "omission, failure or negligence to keep and maintain the walkway traversing his property in good repair, safe and suitable for pedestrian travel," including a willful or negligent failure to keep it clear of ice, snow and other obstructions.

This liability provision, added by Local Law No. 1-1994, exists alongside the day-to-day maintenance duty in Article V: § 430-15 requires the landowner or occupant to clear snow, ice, dirt or other obstructions from an abutting sidewalk within 24 hours after the obstruction forms, and permits salt or ashes where removal would damage the walkway. If an owner or occupant misses that 24-hour window, § 430-16 lets the Town perform the clearing itself and bill the cost to the landowner, with any unpaid amount becoming a lien on the property.

Together the two articles mean Greenburgh property owners carry both an affirmative clearing and repair duty and direct civil exposure if a pedestrian is hurt because the sidewalk in front of their property was left broken, icy or obstructed.