Property Owner Responsibilities for Sidewalks
Property owners in Oakland are responsible for repairing damaged sidewalks adjacent to their property per state and local laws. Sidewalk Permits from the City are required for sidewalk repairs larger than 25 square feet. A licensed contractor should perform all other repairs.
The DOT Permit Counter is now open to the public at our Permit Center on the 2nd Floor of 250 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza. Customers can continue to access DOT permit services by email at DOTonlinepermits@oaklandca.gov, by phone at 510-238-3199, or in-person by appointment only at our Permit Center (schedule an appointment). Please note: masks are required for entry into City buildings.
Repair Information
Sidewalks are where Oaklanders get exercise, walk to daily needs, wait for the bus, and talk with neighbors. They are one of the most important pieces of Oakland's transportation network, and it's essential that they're kept well-maintained and accessible for everyone. Damaged sidewalks create trip hazards for your neighbors and visitors, and are a liability for property owners. Safer sidewalks benefit all pedestrians.
The City of Oakland has approximately 1,100 miles of sidewalks - the distance from Oakland to El Paso, Texas! Most of our sidewalks are in satisfactory condition, but there's still work to be done to address damaged sidewalks.
Property owners in Oakland are responsible for repairing damaged sidewalks adjacent to their property.
If the sidewalk is damaged on your property, you may receive a Notice to Repair issued by the City. If you receive this letter, you must repair the sidewalk within 30 days.
Sidewalk Permits from the City are required for sidewalk repairs larger than 25 square feet. A licensed contractor should perform all other repairs. Permits can be obtained at 250 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor, Oakland, CA 94612 or online at Transportation Permits & Engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a sidewalk defect or damage?
A. There are various levels and types of damage, but any crack or vertical offset of more than ¼ inch is considered a defect, according to the Federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Guidelines. Damaged sidewalks create unsafe conditions for pedestrians.
Why should I repair my sidewalk?
A. If someone trips in front of your house, you could be sued for damages. Sidewalk defects could also create problems for children, seniors, the blind, wheelchair users, or others with special needs. All pedestrians benefit from safe sidewalks.
When should I repair my sidewalks?
A. You can repair your sidewalk at any time. However, you must repair your sidewalk if you are buying or selling your property, or if you are performing a renovation valued at more than $100,000.00. Find more info on Sidewalk Repair and Certification.
How much does the permit cost for sidewalk repair?
A. Sidewalk repair permit fees are based on the latest approved Master Fee Schedule. A typical Sidewalk Permit based on the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Master Fee Schedule is $1,060.35. There may be additional fees for driveways, curbs and gutters. These fees cover City inspection and recording costs.
How do I report a sidewalk defect?
A. Report the problem by calling 311 or (510) 615-5566 or using the OAK311 app (available on Google Play or Apple Store). The City will send an inspector. If there's a problem, a "Notice to Repair" will be issued to the responsible party.
This is a City tree, why am I receiving a Notice to Repair? Staff told me this was an official tree.
A. There was a past practice wherein the city would assume responsibility for sidewalk uplift if the tree was an “official tree” and would hold the adjacent property owner responsible for damaged caused by “unofficial trees.” The challenge is twofold. First, there are incomplete records to determine what type of tree is in the right of way. Second, the Oakland Municipal Code (OMC) does not recognize the designation of “official” and “unofficial” trees. However, the OMC does hold the adjacent property owner responsible for dangerous conditions related to the sidewalk. That is why you as the property owner are receiving a Notice to Repair.
When did this change occur?
A. The Urban Forest Plan (UPF), adopted in Fall 2024, identified issues with the past practice of official/unofficial trees and recommended the City identify long term funding to maintain all trees citywide. The practice was problematic for cost-effective and efficient tree maintenance. Additionally, the UFP Racial Equity Impact Analysis found that maintaining “official” and “unofficial” tree designations was a potentially inequitable practice that may negatively impact frontline communities. The distinction is also potentially based on incomplete data, as the distinction between “official” and “unofficial” street trees is often based in incomplete historical records and other inferences and deductions. The process of creating the Urban Forest Plan prompted a reexamination of the Oakland Municipal Code which reaffirmed that this past practice was not an adopted city policy.
Who approved this change? Who can I appeal this to?
A. This is the direction we have received from the Director of Public Works. Changing this past practice was a departmental decision to align with the Urban Forest Plan goals of equity and preserving urban forest canopy.
I don’t have the ability to pay for this expense.
A. The City offers a Sidewalk Assistance Program to support qualified property owners with sidewalk repairs.
Do I still need permits to cut this tree down?
A. Yes, street trees are regulated by the Tree Ordinance in the Oakland Municipal Code. Removal is subject to Oakland Public Works Tree Services approval