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Encroachment

Sidewalk Anatomy & Site Components
Encroachment Any structure, object, or planting that extends into a sidewalk's required clear path without proper authorization, obstructing the pedestrian right-of-way.

Common encroachments include overgrown shrubbery, unpermitted fences, protruding stoops or steps, and business displays or storage that spill onto public sidewalk space, and DOT can cite these separately from any concrete defect on the same property. Because encroachments involve using public right-of-way for private benefit, resolving one may require removal, relocation, or in some cases a Revocable Consent agreement if the city allows the structure to remain under specific conditions. Left unaddressed, an encroachment complaint can escalate the same way a defect complaint does, starting with a 311 report.

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