How do I get a copy of a Sidewalk Violation?
You can request sidewalk violation copies via 311 or via the "Contact the Commissioner" form.
Requests are received by their internal ARTS system which forwards requests to different sub-units for fulfillment based on whether the request comes via 311 or the "Contact the Commissioner" form. The "Contact the Commissioner" form goes to the Correspondents Unit. Each request should be attached to a Correspondents Unit Number, like how a 311 request has a Service Request Number. Requests are usually fulfilled within several weeks.
How do I resolve a Sidewalk Violation?
To close a Sidewalk Violation, ensure that a contractor obtains a Sidewalk Construction Permit from the DOT and corrects the conditions outlined in the violation. Once the work is complete, request a Dismissal Inspection from the Division of Highway Inspection Quality Assurance (HIQA) by calling 311. You will need to provide the Sidewalk Permit number associated with the work performed. The DOT will then re-inspect the sidewalk to verify that the conditions have been remedied.
Steps:
Hire an Experienced Contractor:
- Hire a contractor who is familiar with DOT specifications for sidewalk repair work. You can confirm DCA licensing here or call 311 to check the status of a contractor.
Request an Inspection Permit:
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Call 311 or have your contractor call 311 to request a sidewalk inspection permit. This is necessary to perform the work and will be used in the final steps of the process. Note: the current permit cost is $70 for every 300 linear feet of sidewalk on one property.
NOTE: This step is critical. If the work was already performed without a permit (or before knowledge of the sidewalk violation), call 311 to request permits as part of the dismissal process.
Call 311 to Request a Dismissal:
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After the work is completed, call 311 to request a Sidewalk Violation Dismissal. Be sure to have your permit information handy – the DOT will verify the same and send out an inspector. If the inspection is satisfactory, the sidewalk violation will be dismissed.
The Department of Transportation officially requires sidewalk violations to be satisfied within 45 days of issuance.
Please note that this new Sidewalk Violation will supersede any existing Sidewalk Violation on the property, as the DOT requires compliance only for the most recent active Sidewalk Violation associated with a city block and lot.