West Des Moines, IA
Home MenuSidewalk Program FAQ's
1. How is a sidewalk defect identified?
The specific area where work is needed on a sidewalk will be marked with white paint. Property owners may complete the sidewalk work on their own and are encouraged to do so. The City has a list of other sidewalks needing repair in case residents would want to join with neighbors to complete the repair work, or jointly retain a contractor to do the work.
2. Why must I pay for it?
The State Code of Iowa (Chapter 364.12 and 364.13) and West Des Moines City Code places the responsibility for repair and maintenance of sidewalks on each property owner. More importantly, however, is the fact that courts have held property owners responsible for injuries when people have fallen on defective sidewalks.
3. Who is responsible for repairing my damaged irrigation system?
Any irrigation system (lines or heads) that are in the public right-of-way are susceptible to damage and are the responsibility of the homeowner to repair. These lines are not approved by the City to be in the public right-of-way and are not part of the utility Iowa One Call System. Often they are in direct conflict with the necessary work.
4. May I cut or grind Defect A?
A property owner may cut or grind a vertical deflection between two panels until the transition is smooth.
5. What happens if I sell my property either before or after I receive the final bill for this project?
If a property owner sells their property before the final bill is received it is up to the property owner and the buyer to determine the best method of handling the estimated amount due. If the property is sold after the final bill is received (and the property owner decided to pay nothing on the amount due) it will again be up to the property owner and the buyer to determine the best method of handling what remains to be paid.
6. May I mud jack or raise (Defect A) or (Defect B – Sunken Sections) repairs?
Mud jacking is permitted for these repairs unless the panels are already cracked; then it must be replaced. Raised sidewalks must be properly supported with stable suitable fill material.
7. What if trees are damaging the sidewalk?
If the damage to the sidewalk is caused by a tree in the right-of-way the City will repair the sidewalk at no cost to the property owner. If the tree is on private property and damaging the sidewalk then the resident will be responsible for all costs associated to the necessary repair. The City will trim the necessary tree roots out of the sidewalk corridor. Please contact us as in advance so we can schedule the work.