The City of Westerville administers a sidewalk maintenance provision as part of the annual Street Rehabilitation program to identify deteriorated and misaligned sidewalks for repair or replacement.

Ohio Revised Code Chapter 729.01 describes Ohio property owner responsibilities relating to sidewalks, curbs and gutters. The City, in agreement with state law, provides for the administration of a sidewalk program on the premise that property owners derive both a use benefit as well as enhanced property values from sidewalks.

Beginning in 2021, the City will repair or replace deficient sidewalk panels at no direct cost to property owners. Hazardous panel locations are recorded by public complaint and are addressed during the following construction season as part of each year's Street Rehabilitation Project. Evaluations of hazardous panels reported to the City are based on approved sidewalk safety guidelines.

PLEASE NOTE: While the City has adopted a policy of repairing hazardous walks at no direct cost to property owners, this policy decision in no way removes legal liabilities from property owners of defective panels that may cause injury. The City's decision to absorb financial costs of repair is a benefit to property owners and not an adoption of liability.

Property owners not wishing to wait until next season's repair project may repair or replace their own panels as they see fit. A residential sidewalk and approach permit is required for property owners wishing to do their own repairs. The permit is free of charge up to 200 Sq Ft of concrete panel replacement (approximately 8 squares) and includes standard construction detail guidelines for repair. Download the residential sidewalk and approach permit.

Zone inspections are expected to resume in 2023 (Map)
Sidewalk repair is a vital part of neighborhood pride. Property owners with questions about the program should contact the Sidewalk Hotline at (614) 901-6757. Questions or comments may also be emailed to sidewalks@westerville.org.