Who is Responsible for Curb Repairs in NYC?
Curbs are boundaries separating sidewalks from roads. Their presence indicated that this space is designated for pedestrian use only and cannot be used for car parking. It shows that curbs are essential for pedestrian safety on sidewalks.
Missing or damaged curbs are DOT violations and require immediate repairs. The Department of Transportation encourages property owners to get the curbs repaired during sidewalk work.
They may repair or replace damages at no cost to property owners if found during inspection.
What Causes Curb Damage?
Concrete, bluestone, and steel are the most common materials that can be used to construct the curbs. Despite the durability of these strong materials, curbs can still get damaged over time.
You might notice crack formation on them during summers, spalling due to water damage, and sinking due to soil erosion. Similarly, cars, trucks, and other heavy vehicles hitting on the curb can partially or completely damage it. Overgrown tree roots near the sidewalk might also exert pressure on the curb, leading to the formation of deep cracks in the curb.
If you notice any curb damage, you can simply call 311 and ask the DOT for inspection. After inspection, if the sidewalks are damaged along with the curb, they will encourage you to make the repairs.
However, if only the curb is damaged, they will make the changes themselves.
Common Curb Violations
Damaged or painted curbs lead to DOT violation. Similarly, illegally constructed curbs are also a violation and must be reported by calling at 311. Let us look at some common curb violations in NYC.
Illegal Curb Cuts
Curb cuts constructed without the permit from NYC DOB lead to OATH/Environmental Control Board violations, court appearances, and legal fines.
Missing or Defective Curbs
Damaged curbs also lead to DOT violations, as someone can trip over them and get injured. Fixing them is not the property owner's responsibility, but DOT encourages them to make the repairs while fixing sidewalk damages.
Painted Curbs
Painting your sidewalk curb with yellow paint, graffiti, or any promotional advertisement is also a violation and must be removed as using power washing or battleship grey shade of paint.
Do I need a Permit for Curb Repair?
If you are fixing curbs with the sidewalks, you might wonder whether you will need a separate permit for it or not. Well, you only have to apply for a sidewalk construction permit from the DOT, which covers both sidewalk and curb repair.
However, if you need to construct a curb cut, you will have to apply for a curb cut permit at DOB.
Conclusion
Curbs provide safety and protection to pedestrians by separating out the sidewalks from the streets. Missing or damaged curbs can lead to trip and fall accidents and therefore must be fixed as soon as possible.
Initially, fixing sidewalk curbs is the DOT's responsibility, and they do it without any cost. However, if you are getting your sidewalks fixed, they encourage you to make the repairs to the curb yourself.