Sidewalk Repair Program

Creating safe, walkable neighborhoods is a top priority for the City of Clinton. A key part of this effort is our Sidewalk Repair Program, which ensures sidewalks are maintained to meet safety standards. Under Iowa State Code 364.12 and City Code 97.029, property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks adjacent to their property.

Inspection Schedule

To manage inspections efficiently, Clinton is divided into eight geographical areas. Each year, one area is selected for a comprehensive sidewalk inspection based on criteria set by the City Engineer. Sidewalks outside the scheduled area may also be inspected if a complaint is received.

 Note: Only city sidewalks are inspected. Parkway areas, driveway approaches, and water stop boxes are not included.

If you disagree with the inspection findings, you may submit a written appeal to the City Engineering Department within 30 days of receiving your report. Appeals are reviewed and finalized within 60 days.

Inspection Criteria

Sidewalk squares are marked with pink arrows if they meet any of the following conditions:

• Vertical displacement of 1 inch or more
• Depressed or raised more than 2 inches, or if water pools
• Missing more than ¼ of the panel
• Broken across more than 50% of the surface
• Horizontal gaps of 1.5 inches or more
• Cross slope exceeds 5%

These issues are documented in the Sidewalk Inspection Report sent to the property owner.

Repair Process

Property owners with sidewalks marked for repair will receive:

• A notification letter
• A copy of the inspection report
• A sidewalk repair specification sheet

These are mailed by June 30 each year to the address listed with the County Assessor.

Voluntary Sidewalk Replacement Cost-Share Program

The City offers a cost-sharing program to help with repair expenses:

• Standard Cost-Share: City pays 50%, property owner pays 50%
• Low-Income Homeowners: City pays 75%, homeowner pays 25% (must meet HUD income guidelines)

To participate, property owners must:

• Submit payment before the deadline
• Submit a completed application including:
• Signed Authorization for Release of Information
• Most recent federal income tax return (for low-income status)

 Note: If you choose to repair the sidewalk yourself, the City will reimburse 50% of the concrete material cost.

Applications are processed first-come, first-served, subject to funding availability.

City Responsibilities

The City of Clinton is responsible for:

• Over-width sidewalks (over 6 feet), unless damaged by the property owner
• Damage caused by city-owned infrastructure (e.g., sewer manholes, parkway trees)
• Maintenance and repair of curb ramps across public streets

For more information or to apply for the cost-share program, please contact the City Engineering Department.