Sidewalk repair

In Sioux Falls, property owners are responsible for the sidewalks next to their property, including the cost of repairs. The city inspects sidewalks and sends letters when a section needs repair. Many sidewalk problems can be fixed by lifting sunken panels. Others need panels removed and replaced.

How does the Sioux Falls sidewalk program work?

The City of Sioux Falls says it aims to inspect about 10 percent of sidewalks each year and also inspects when someone reports a hazard. If your sidewalk needs repair, the city's letter gives you three options:

1. Do it yourself. Get a free homeowner sidewalk permit, do the work, and call for a re-inspection.
2. Hire a contractor. The contractor gets the sidewalk permit and pays the permit fee. The city highly recommends a contractor who is bonded and insured with the city.
3. Let the city's contractor do it. The city bills you after the work is done. Unpaid balances are added to your property taxes the following year.

If you don't get a permit by the due date in the letter, you're automatically enrolled in the third option. Questions go to the city's sidewalk program at 605-367-8600.

Lift, grind or replace?

• Lift (level). For panels that have sunk but are solid. Often the least disruptive option.
• Grind. For small lips between panels. Grinding shaves down the high edge.
• Replace. For panels that are broken, crumbling or heaved by roots.

Whichever method you choose, make sure it meets the city's requirements for your notice. Ask the contractor to confirm with the city if you're unsure, and keep your permit and re-inspection records.

What causes sidewalk trip hazards?

• Frost heave lifting one panel above the next
• Soil settling or washing out under a panel
• Boulevard tree roots pushing panels up
• Downspouts or sump lines draining across or beside the walk

What should I ask a sidewalk contractor?

• Are you bonded and insured with the City of Sioux Falls for right-of-way work?
• Will you pull the sidewalk permit, and is the fee in your price?
• Can you finish before the due date in my letter?
• Will you lift, grind or replace, and why?
• What's the warranty, in writing?

Prices come from the concrete company after they've seen the slab and figured out why it moved. We don't quote prices ourselves, and a phone estimate is only a starting point.

Where we connect you with help

• Sioux Falls
• Brandon
• Harrisburg
• Tea
• Hartford

Related services

• Concrete leveling (mudjacking and foam)
• Driveway repair and replacement
• Steps, stoops and patios
• Crack and joint sealing

More background: Sioux Falls concrete repair guide.