County Clerk filing The copy of a Notice of Sidewalk Violation that DOT records with the borough County Clerk, where it remains on file until the city confirms satisfactory repairs.
This filing is what makes a sidewalk violation show up on a title search, since it's a public record tied to the property rather than a private notice to the owner. It stays on file regardless of how much time has passed, which means an old, forgotten violation can resurface during a sale decades later. Clearing it requires DOT to notify the Clerk after a successful dismissal inspection — there's no separate paperwork the owner files with the Clerk directly. Buyers, sellers, and title attorneys across the city routinely check this record before closing.
Frequently Asked Questions About County Clerk filing
What is the County Clerk filing on a sidewalk violation?
The copy of a Notice of Sidewalk Violation that DOT records with the borough County Clerk, where it remains until the City confirms satisfactory repairs.
Why does it matter?
It is what makes the violation appear on a title search, because it is a public record tied to the property rather than a private notice to the owner.
Does an old violation expire?
No. It stays on file regardless of how much time passes, so a forgotten violation can resurface during a sale years or decades later.
How is the filing removed?
DOT notifies the Clerk after a successful dismissal inspection. There is no separate form the owner files with the Clerk directly.