Can a Broken Sidewalk be Repaired for Free in NYC?

For most property owners, the answer is no. It is the owner’s job to fix broken sidewalks, which costs money. However, if the roots of a city-owned tree have damaged your sidewalk, the Trees and Sidewalks Repair Program might be able to help. This program is designed to help property owners lessen the cost of fixing damage caused by city trees.

What is the Trees and Sidewalk Repair Program?

The Trees and Sidewalks Repair Program is a city initiative the NYC Parks Department manages. Its primary goal is to address the damage caused to sidewalks by city-owned trees, particularly in residential areas.

Eligibility for Free Repairs

Eligibility for the Trees and Sidewalks Program typically applies to one-, two-, or three-family homes with damage that can be traced back to the roots of city trees. It’s essential to act promptly and document the damage to ensure you are following the appropriate procedures.

Key Features of the Program:

Inspection Requests: Property owners can request an inspection of their sidewalks if they believe city tree roots are causing damage. This is the first step in the process.
Prioritisation of Repairs: The Parks Department receives thousands of inspection requests annually (approximately 9,000). They prioritize repairs based on several criteria, including:
- The severity of the damage
- Amount of pedestrian traffic in the area
- Size and condition of the tree

While the program aims to address sidewalk safety, it’s important to note that even homes located in high-priority areas may experience lengthy wait times for repairs, sometimes lasting up to three years.

What to Do if a Tree is Damaging the Sidewalk?

If a city tree is damaging your sidewalk, follow these steps to seek a resolution:

Request an Inspection: Contact the NYC Parks Department through 311 helpline or their website to request an official inspection of the sidewalk. You can do this online or by contacting their offices directly. Ensure you provide clear details and any documentation related to the damage.
Wait for Evaluation: The Parks Department will evaluate the damage and assess whether it meets the Trees and Sidewalks program criteria.
Consider Self-Repair: Given the potential wait time, many property owners choose to repair the sidewalk themselves. If you go this route, you must take specific steps to comply with city regulations.

Steps for Self-Repair and Reimbursement

If you decide to undertake the repairs yourself, follow these guidelines:

Obtain a Tree Work Permit: Before starting any work within 50 feet of a city tree, you must obtain a tree work permit from the NYC Parks Department. The application process usually takes about 45 days, and the permit will be valid for 90 days once issued. This step is crucial to ensure compliance with city regulations.
Hire a Licensed Contractor: It’s advisable to hire a licensed contractor experienced in sidewalk repairs. They can help ensure that the work meets city standards and minimizes potential damage to the tree.
Make Repairs: After securing your permit and hiring a contractor, proceed with the repairs. To avoid any issues, ensure that you follow all guidelines provided with the permit.
File for Reimbursement: Once the repairs are completed, file a claim with the NYC Comptroller’s Office within 90 days. To successfully claim reimbursement, you’ll need to provide a checklist of required documents, which may include:
- The permit for tree work
- Invoices and receipts for the repair work
- Photos of the damage and the completed repairs

Documentation Checklist:

Tree Work Permit
Detailed invoices from the contractor
Receipts for materials used
Before-and-after photos of the sidewalk

Navigating the process may feel stressful, but it’s essential to keep sidewalks safe and accessible for all New Yorkers. Adequately maintained sidewalks enhance neighbourhood aesthetics and contribute to pedestrian safety.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, while sidewalk repairs in NYC typically fall to property owners, those affected by city tree roots can seek assistance through the Trees and Sidewalks Repair Program. For others, taking on repairs independently can be a viable option, however with its own set of regulations and procedures. By understanding the available options, homeowners can ensure that their sidewalks remain safe and inviting for all pedestrians.

You can visit the NYC Parks Department and the NYC Department of Transportation websites for more information. If you need further assistance, consider contacting local resources or a reputable contractor in nyc for guidance. Keeping our sidewalks in good condition is a shared responsibility that benefits the entire community.