Murrieta, CA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Sidewalk Repair (2026)

California Streets and Highways Code 5610 places the duty to maintain and repair sidewalks, curbs, and gutters on adjacent property owners. In Murrieta, Public Works inspects sidewalks on complaint and during routine surveys, and issues notices to property owners requiring repair of displaced, cracked, or hazardous sections. Property owners typically have 30 to 60 days to complete repairs after notice. The city offers guidance on acceptable repair methods including grinding, patching, and full replacement. If owners fail to repair, the city may perform the work and assess the cost against the property via special assessment or lien under S&H 5615. Trip and fall liability has historically shifted to property owners under S&H 5610, though some California courts have held cities jointly liable when they have actual notice of hazards and fail to act. Tree root damage from parkway trees is often shared, with the city responsible for the tree and owners responsible for the sidewalk repair. Permits are required to perform sidewalk repairs in the public right-of-way, available from Public Works.