If the repair is yours to pay
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Default rule and exceptions
Every owner/occupant/agent of a lot abutting a street must construct, reconstruct or repair a defective abutting sidewalk to city specs (§ 32-103). On failure after notice the Transportation Dept does the work at the owner’s expense (§ 32-105); a noticed owner is liable for injuries (§ 32-109).
Permit required: yes.
| Party | What they are responsible for |
|---|---|
| Property owner | Keep the abutting sidewalk/curb in good repair to city specs; repair within the noticed time; liable for the city’s cost and for injuries on a neglected walk. |
| City / public agency | City sets specs/permits, gives notice, and may repair at the owner’s expense on default. |
| Exceptions | None on record |
What the source says
Last verified against the primary source on Sep 13, 2026.
When any street has been brought to an established or adopted grade, or when any sidewalk becomes out of repair or in any manner defective, whether in the bed or pavement or curbing thereof, or if such sidewalk does not conform to the provisions of the specifications of the city therefor, the owner, occupant or agent shall cause such sidewalk to be constructed, reconstructed or put in good repair according to such specifications.
If the owner, occupant or agent fails or refuses to construct, reconstruct or repair any required sidewalk or curbing, the Transportation Department may cause the same to be done at the expense of the property owner.
the abutting property owner, or his agent, has been notified to effectuate in the manner provided in this article, more than five (5) days before the happening of such injury, the abutting property owner shall be liable in damages.
City rules rest on state law. Read Tennessee's sidewalk statute, quoted verbatim, or see all 50 states in one table.
Common questions
Who pays for sidewalk repair in Chattanooga, TN?
The property owner. Keep the abutting sidewalk/curb in good repair to city specs; repair within the noticed time; liable for the city’s cost and for injuries on a neglected walk.
What does the city cover in Chattanooga, TN?
City sets specs/permits, gives notice, and may repair at the owner’s expense on default.
Do I need a permit to repair the sidewalk in Chattanooga, TN?
Yes. The rule on record requires a permit for sidewalk work in the public right-of-way.
What is this based on for Chattanooga, TN?
This verdict is sourced to Chattanooga City Code § 32-103: owner to construct or repair sidewalk and 3 sources in total, each independently re-checked before publication.
Sources
- Chattanooga City Code § 32-103: owner to construct or repair sidewalkofficial · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-12
- Chattanooga City Code § 32-105: city repairs at owner expense on defaultofficial · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-12
- Sec. 32-109. Liability of Abutting Owner for Injuries to Personsordinance · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-27
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