Sidewalks and Right‑of‑Way: What Sunnyvale Owners Must Know

Tripped over a lifted sidewalk slab outside your Sunnyvale home? You are not alone. Sidewalks and the public strip in front of your property can feel like a gray zone, especially when root damage or cracks appear. In this guide, you will learn what you are responsible for, when you need City permits, how street trees factor in, and how to avoid fines while keeping your frontage safe. Let’s dive in.

Right-of-way basics

The public right-of-way along your frontage typically includes the sidewalk, curb and gutter, driveway apron, and the planting strip between the curb and sidewalk. These areas serve the public and are regulated by the City.

Work in the right-of-way usually requires City approval. Under Sunnyvale’s encroachment rules, construction or repairs in these areas need a permit and may require insurance and bonds. See the City’s encroachment code for details at the source. Sunnyvale Municipal Code Chapter 13.08

Owner responsibilities

Sunnyvale can order sidewalk construction, reconstruction, or repair next to your property. If you receive a notice and do not comply, the City may perform the work and assess the cost to your parcel as a special assessment or lien after required hearings. Sidewalk Construction and Repair, Chapter 13.12

You are also expected to keep your frontage safe for public use. That includes reporting hazards and addressing repairs when the City directs you to do so.

Permits you need

Most repairs or changes in the right-of-way need an encroachment permit. That includes replacing sidewalk panels, modifying driveway aprons, or excavating near curbs and gutters. Permits help ensure traffic control, inspections, and construction standards are met. Encroachment Permits, Chapter 13.08

Accessibility standards apply to new and altered pedestrian facilities. The U.S. Department of Transportation adopted accessibility standards for pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way (PROWAG), effective January 17, 2025. City work and permitted private repairs must follow these rules, including curb ramp requirements when applicable. DOT final rule on PROWAG

Do not pour or demolish concrete in the right-of-way without a City permit. Unpermitted work can be declared a nuisance and may be subject to removal, fines, or repair liabilities. Chapter 13.08

Street trees and roots

Sunnyvale regulates street trees located in the public right-of-way. Pruning or removal of a City street tree requires a Street Tree Work Permit and specific contractor credentials and insurance. Coordinate with the City arborist before any root or canopy work. Street Tree Work Permit

If roots are lifting sidewalk panels or creating trip hazards, report the issue so the City can inspect and advise on next steps. For urgent tree hazards, call Parks and Trees at 408-730-7506.

Sunnyvale’s code does not state a blanket reimbursement for tree-related sidewalk repairs. Some Bay Area cities offer cost-sharing in certain cases, but programs vary. Ask Public Works if any assistance options apply to your address before you commit to large repairs.

Step-by-step fix-it plan

• Document the issue. Take wide and close photos, note cross streets, and measure height differences.
• Report the hazard. Use Access Sunnyvale to log a “Street or Sidewalk Issue” and request inspection. This creates a record and routing for City review. Access Sunnyvale portal
• Wait for City direction. If you receive a repair notice, follow the timeline and instructions. The City can proceed and assess costs if owners do not comply. Chapter 13.12
• Line up permits and the right contractor. Confirm you need an encroachment permit. For street-tree work, apply for a Street Tree Work Permit and hire qualified, insured professionals. Encroachment Permits | Tree Work Permit
• Schedule inspections and keep records. Make sure inspections occur as required. Save permits, photos, and receipts for your files.

If you receive a City notice, respond by the deadline. That helps you avoid added costs and keeps your block safer for everyone.

Costs and budgeting

Sidewalk costs vary by scope, site conditions, and accessibility details. Industry guides show small patching or leveling in the hundreds to low thousands of dollars, while replacing full panels can run into the low thousands or more. Per-square-foot estimates for repairs and new concrete often range from about 3 to 20 dollars per square foot for repairs and 5 to 12 or more for new work, depending on site prep and standards. Use local written bids to budget accurately. Concrete sidewalk cost ranges

Tip: Get at least two written estimates that include permit fees, traffic control, ADA details, and tree-root mitigation if applicable.

Enforcement and claims

If you do not complete required repairs after notice, the City may do the work and assess the cost to your property as a special assessment or lien after public notice and hearings. Interest and installment options can apply. Chapter 13.12

Unpermitted work or obstructions may be declared a public nuisance and abated under the encroachment code. Chapter 13.08

If you believe City action or inaction caused damage or injury, use the City’s claim process and follow the stated deadlines. File a claim against the City

Key contacts

• Public Works Administration: 408-730-7415 (streets, sidewalks, encroachment permits)
• Parks and Trees: 408-730-7506 (street tree hazards and permit questions)
• Access Sunnyvale service requests: use the online portal for street or sidewalk issues

Getting sidewalk and right-of-way work right protects your neighbors and your investment. If you are planning updates before selling or you want a smooth path through permits and timelines, connect with Janet Souza for local guidance tailored to your goals.

FAQs

Who pays for sidewalk repairs in Sunnyvale?

• The City can order repairs and, if owners do not comply, perform the work and assess costs to the adjoining property after notice and hearings. Chapter 13.12

Do I need a permit to replace a sidewalk panel or driveway apron?

• Yes. Most work in the right-of-way, including sidewalk panels and driveway aprons, requires an encroachment permit and may require insurance and bonds. Chapter 13.08

What if a street tree is lifting my sidewalk?

• Report it for City inspection first. Street trees are regulated, and pruning or removal requires a Street Tree Work Permit and qualified contractors. Tree Work Permit

How do I report a broken sidewalk or trip hazard?

• Submit a “Street or Sidewalk Issue” via Access Sunnyvale so the City can inspect and advise next steps. Access Sunnyvale portal

What accessibility rules apply to repairs?

• When pedestrian facilities are built or altered, work must meet ADA standards. DOT’s adoption of PROWAG sets accessibility requirements for features like curb ramps. DOT on PROWAG