Sidewalk Maintenance Program

Uneven Sidewalks 

(Vertical Displacement)

• ½" to 1½" difference – May be repaired by cutting the high edge, lifting the low edge (Mud Jacking), or replacing the section. Marked with a white dot or line.
• 1½" to 2" difference – Can be lifted (Mud Jacking) or replaced and marked with a white dot or line.
• Over 2" difference – Requires replacement. Marked with a pink dot.

Heaved or Sunken Sidewalks

• It must be replaced if a section rises or sinks more than 4 inches. Marked with a pink dot.
• Sunken sidewalks may be lifted (Mud Jacking) or replaced. Contact an Engineering Technician for evaluation.

Back-Pitched Sidewalks 

(Draining Toward 
Property Instead of Street)

• It can cause water pooling. Some cases may be fixed with Mud Jacking, but replacement may be needed. Contact an Engineering Technician before repairs.
  
  
  
  
  

Sidewalk Edge Displacement

• A sidewalk greater than 1" higher or lower than an adjacent driveway or apron may be a tripping hazard. Marked with a pink dot. Possible fixes: Mud Jacking or replacement. Side edges cannot be cut to match lower sections.

Gaps at Sidewalk Edges

• Wide gaps (more than 1") between the sidewalk and driveway may be filled with asphalt, concrete, or caulk. If not filled, the City may replace the affected sections.
  
  

Cracks in Sidewalks

• Narrow (1" or less) – Can be filled with masonry crack filler or concrete patch from a hardware store.
• Wide (Over 1") – Beyond repair, must be replaced and marked with a pink dot.
  
  

Tree Root Damage

• If tree roots push up a sidewalk section, they will be removed and replaced, and the root may be trimmed and marked with a pink dot.
• The city prioritizes tree preservation. Contact the City Forester for coordination if you plan to replace the sidewalk through a contractor

Obstructions & Encroachments

• Sidewalks must remain clear of mud, gravel, or objects per City Ordinance 8.06(1) and Wis. Stat. 66.0907(1).
• Trees and shrubs must be trimmed 10 feet above sidewalks and 14 feet above streets. If a terrace tree needs pruning, contact the City Forester
  
  

Standing Water on Sidewalks

• If the grass has grown higher than the sidewalk, the property owner can remove excess soil to allow drainage. Contact an Engineering Technician before starting, as a permit is required (no fee).

Cadillac Repair with Installation of Paver Blocks

Created Drainage Way with Gravel

Cut a Trench Between the Sidewalk and Curb

Cut Away the Sod Along the Sidewalk Edge