Every Queens homeowner knows that a sidewalk is a huge part of a property’s curb appeal, but most don’t pay attention to it until something goes wrong. Perhaps, you’ve got a dreaded orange violation notice, gaping cracks forming on the sidewalk, or simply want to enhance your overall property appeal. Whatever your situation, understanding your sidewalk responsibilities is essential for avoiding fines and keeping your property safe and beautiful.
Your Sidewalk, Your Responsibility
Sidewalks are public amenities which anybody can use. However, homeowners in Queens are liable for maintaining the sidewalk in front of their property. This includes:
- Repairing cracks, trips, and other hazards
- Removing snow and ice within four hours after snowfall ends
- Keeping sidewalks clean and free of debris
- Addressing tree root damage and upheaval
If these responsibilities are not met, the DOT or Department of Transportation can impose side walk violations which result in monetary penalties if not attended to in timely manner.
Understanding Sidewalk Violations in Queens
The DOT regularly conducts sidewalk violation inspections Queens, looking for conditions that pose safety risks to pedestrians. Common violations include:
- Cracked or broken flags (concrete sections)
- Improper slope or grade
- Trip hazards greater than ½ inch
- Ponding or improper drainage
- Hardware trip hazards (like cellar doors)
After receiving a violation, you can either choose to remove the violation using a sidewalk violation removal Queens service, or deal with the city’s repair program—which is usually more expensive and time-consuming.
