Sidewalk Inspections

Sidewalks are an important part of the infrastructure in an urban community. Sidewalks connect neighborhoods, schools, parks, and businesses and provide safe passage for citizens to get around the community.

Sidewalks are typically constructed within the public right-of-way. In Windsor Heights, as in most jurisdictions, the adjacent property owner is responsible for the construction, repair and maintenance of sidewalks. Property owners have the responsibility to make sure sidewalks are safe, in good repair, and clear of impediments, including the removal of snow and ice, low lying tree branches, and yard waste. Residents are required by ordinance to clear sidewalks (including pedestrian ramps) no more than 48 hours after the end of a snowfall.

The purpose of the sidewalk assessment program is to formalize a process where the City of Windsor Heights will inspect sidewalks and order their repair, replacement, or construction. Properties without existing sidewalks are not required to install sidewalks as part of City Ordinance. City policy is to evaluate the need for sidewalks as roads are reconstructed, and, if warranted, sidewalks may be installed by the City as part of the road reconstruction project.

A property owner may choose to repair or construct the sidewalk on their own, by contract using a qualified contractor, or by having the sidewalk repaired or constructed by the City. If the property owner chooses to have the sidewalk repaired or constructed by the City, they may choose to pay the cost of the repair or installation directly or have the cost included in the special assessment.

Click here to view the City's draft revised sidewalk ordinance.

Sidewalk Inspection Zones

The City of Windsor Heights has been broken down into five zones. Each zone will be inspected on a five-year rotation, with one zone being completed per year. The City inspects existing sidewalks to ensure they remain in good accessible condition.

YearZone to be Inspected
2025Zone 2
2026Zone 3
2027Zone 4
2028Zone 5
2029Zone 1


Click here to view the Sidewalk Inspection Zone Map

Inspection and Repair Process

  • Sidewalk inspection by City staff
  • Initial mailing to property owners with sidewalk deficiencies
  • Final sidewalk deficiency notification letter to unresponsive property owners
  • Property owner repair completed
  • Final City inspection of deficient sidewalks
  • City replacement of deficient sidewalks that are the responsibility of the City or were not completed by the responsible property owner

Helpful Links

Sidewalk Repair Program Form (digital form)
Sidewalk Repair Program Form (PDF)
Sidewalk Deficiency Codes with Description and Visual Aid
Sidewalk Improvement Grant
Sidewalk Improvement Grant Application
Sidewalk Repair FAQs
Grinding Your Sidewalk
Filling Gaps in Your Sidewalk