The City of Painesville’s Sidewalk Program helps maintain safe, walkable neighborhoods while improving the overall appearance of the community.

The program is a shared effort between the City and property owners to repair and replace aging or damaged sidewalks.

How the Program Works

The Sidewalk Program has two parts:

• City Responsibility: The City replaces certain sidewalk sections and removes trees that impact public infrastructure
• Property Owner Responsibility: Property owners are responsible for replacing sidewalk sections adjacent to their property when identified

 

How to Know Who Is Responsible

City inspectors mark sidewalks using white paint:

• “O” = Repaired by the City
• “X” = Repaired by the property owner

Property owners are responsible for 100% of the cost of replacement for sections marked with an “X.”

Work must be completed within one year of notification.

What Gets Replaced

Sidewalk sections may be replaced if they:

• Create a trip hazard (raised or uneven slabs)
• Have significant cracking
• Show heavy surface deterioration (spalling or chipping)
• Are made of materials other than concrete

 

How Streets Are Selected

Sidewalk work is scheduled annually based on overall condition.

Projects are grouped by neighborhood to complete work efficiently and minimize disruption.

Property Owner Process

If your sidewalk has been marked for replacement, follow these steps:

1. Apply for a Flatwork Right-of-Way Permit through the Engineering Department
• Fee: $45 (includes two inspections)
2. Schedule a pre-pour inspection
• Verifies depth, forms, and base preparation
3. Complete the concrete work
• You may hire a registered contractor or complete the work yourself
4. Restore the area
• Reseed and repair any disturbed lawn areas, either by registered contractor or homeowner
5. Schedule a final inspection
• Confirms the work and restoration are complete

 

After Replacement

Restoration should begin as soon as possible after the new sidewalks have been poured. Contractors are required to use high quality topsoil and seed to grow grass. Property owners can assist with this by watering the ground lightly every day until grass has been mowed once or twice. Then, water more heavily and less frequently.

Questions?

For more information, contact the Engineering Department at [email protected].