San Jose Municipal Code Sections 14.16.2200–14.16.2270 place full sidewalk repair responsibility on property owners. Owners must maintain the sidewalk, park strip, driveway approach, and curb/gutter adjacent to their property. A sidewalk repair permit is required before starting any work.
Under SJMC Sections 14.16.2200 through 14.16.2270, all property owners in San Jose are responsible for maintaining the sidewalk, park strip area, curb, and gutter adjacent to their property in safe condition. When the city identifies defective sidewalk through routine inspection or complaint, property owners receive written notification and have 60 days to complete all repairs. A sidewalk repair permit must be obtained from the Department of Transportation before starting any work to ensure repairs meet city construction standards. Contractors performing sidewalk work must be licensed and insured. The city may also order repairs when tree roots from city-maintained street trees cause damage, though the city's Street Tree Program may share costs for tree-root-related damage under Chapter 13.28. California Streets and Highways Code Section 5610 reinforces that property owners adjacent to public sidewalks are responsible for maintenance.
Notice of violation with 60-day repair deadline. City may perform repairs and bill the property owner if deadline is not met. Liens may be placed on the property for unpaid repair costs.
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