Lower Paxton, PA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Sidewalk Repair (2026)

Section 176-13 of the Lower Paxton Township Code, in Chapter 176 (Streets and Sidewalks), Article II, puts sidewalk upkeep on the owner next door. Subsection A states it as an obligation of the adjacent property owner to maintain sidewalks, curbs and mowing strips and eliminate any conditions which, in the opinion of the Township, are a hazard to the public. The standard is the Township's own opinion, so the Board of Supervisors' staff, not the owner, decides when a condition has crossed the line.

The code names three conditions that are sufficient cause to require repair or replacement. The first is vertical movement out of alignment in excess of 11/4 inches (printed that way in the code) that creates an abrupt change in height of the walking surface, causing a tripping hazard or letting stormwater accumulate. The second is a surface that is broken up, pitted or disintegrating and causes a safety hazard. The third is horizontal movement out of alignment that creates a safety hazard or drainage problem.

Subsection B gives the Township, not the owner, the call on how much repair is needed to eliminate the hazard. When the work includes removing sidewalk, the removal or cutback must be done with a saw, and the replacement must follow a neat, straight line in joining old work. Subsection C adds that where the condition includes a drainage depression in the sidewalk surface, every attempt must be made to replace the depression with a drain pipe under the sidewalk.

New or rebuilt work follows § 176-12. Plans for construction, reconstruction or alteration of sidewalks, curbs or curb cut ramps, other than those in an approved subdivision or land development plan, are filed with the Codes Enforcement Office during normal business hours. They consist of four clear blue- or black-line prints, and the Township acts within 10 calendar days of a complete submission. The contractor must clean up surplus materials and temporary structures within 48 hours after completion and must barricade the work area, with lighting at night. An owner who cannot install or keep sidewalks or curbs can ask the Board of Supervisors for a modification under § 176-14, which requires a written application and all six listed conditions to be met.