You And Your Sidewalks

By Veronica D’Annibale

GPHC District 9 Representative

If a sidewalk is not level or pitted causing unsafe use, this may constitute a “tripping hazard.”  A tripping hazard is measured at the size of a quarter.

According to City Inspector Andy Metcalf, whose territory includes all of Park Hill, any complaint could be cause for a sidewalk notice depending on the severity of the hazard.  The homeowner is responsible to make such a repair.  This could involve permits, permit fees, and construction contracts.

A homeowner may get permits (fee exempt), however, the contractor may get them as well for a fee.  Potentially, the homeowner would save $150 +/- when making the application.  A construction permit must be requested through a contractor so that it can be tracked for a 3-year warranty.

Homeowners are responsible for sidewalks and are allowed to make cosmetic changes; no permits are required for cosmetic changes. Several repair methods are available to the homeowner. They include the following:

• Cold patch, tar like, is the cheapest & easiest, but requires constant maintenance

• Hot patch is similar to an asphalt mix, using a weed burner and a propane tank to heat it.  This is a more permanent fix.

• Quick dry concrete (such as Rapid Set, setting in 15 minutes with structural strength in 1 hour, available at Home Depot) is the smoothest type of application.

Andy Metcalf can be reached at 303-446-3661 or Andrew.Metcalf@denvergov.org.