Sidewalks

Homeowner Responsibilities

Homeowners have a number of responsibilities when it comes to the sidewalks adjacent to their homes. Foremost among these is the responsibility to keep the sidewalks safe and free of debris. For example, homeowners are required by ordinance to clear the snow and ice from their sidewalks within 24 hours of the end of a storm. Also, homeowners should keep trees and bushes trimmed back from the sidewalk so that no pedestrians are hurt by low-hanging branches.

When a sidewalk or section of sidewalk needs to be repaired or replaced, it is the responsibility of the adjacent homeowner to have that done. The cost will be paid by the homeowner, or an assessment will be filed against the homeowner.

More Information

Please read Chapter 99 of the Municipal Code, specifically 99.070 for more information. For additional information, please contact the Department of Engineering and Public Works by email or at 515-278-3950.

Sidewalk Assessment Program

It is the policy of the City Council that sidewalks will be installed adjacent to all streets in the city. The city has implemented this policy through the Sidewalk Assessment Program. Sidewalks adjacent to major arterials, along safe school routes, and near parks are the highest priorities.

Under this program, property owners are notified when their property has been scheduled for sidewalk installation. Property owners have 11 months to install the sidewalk at their own expense using a contractor of their choosing. Property owners who elect not to install the sidewalk will be included in a sidewalk assessment. The city will install these sidewalks, and the property owners will pay the cost of the sidewalk installation through an special assessment on their property taxes.