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Default rule and exceptions
The abutting owner has the general sidewalk-repair duty (Riverside Municipal Code § 13.10.010(B), consistent with CA S&H § 5610), but is expressly exempt from repairing sidewalk damage caused by a City-owned and maintained street tree in the right-of-way or easement (§ 13.10.119).
Permit required: yes.
| Party | What they are responsible for |
|---|---|
| Property owner | Repair and maintain the abutting sidewalk area generally (§ 13.10.010(B)), except City-street-tree damage. |
| City / public agency | The City bears sidewalk damage caused by a City-owned and maintained street tree (§ 13.10.119). |
| Exceptions | City-owned street-tree root damage: owner exempt, City repairs (§ 13.10.119). |
What the source says
Last verified against the primary source on Sep 9, 2026.
Nothing in Chapter 13.10 shall require the adjacent property owner or person in possession, to maintain, repair or otherwise be responsible for damage to sidewalk areas caused by a City owned and maintained street tree located in the street right-of-way or easement.
The owners of lots or portions of lots adjacent to or fronting on any portion of a sidewalk area between the property line of the lots and the street line, including parking strips, sidewalks, curbs and gutters, and persons in possession of such lots by virtue of any permit or right shall repair and maintain such sidewalk areas and pay the costs and expenses therefor
City rules rest on state law. Read California's sidewalk statute, quoted verbatim, or see all 50 states in one table.
Common questions
Who pays for tree roots in Riverside, CA?
Responsibility is shared. Repair and maintain the abutting sidewalk area generally (§ 13.10.010(B)), except City-street-tree damage.
Do I need a permit to repair the sidewalk in Riverside, CA?
Yes. The rule on record requires a permit for sidewalk work in the public right-of-way.
Are there exceptions in Riverside, CA?
City-owned street-tree root damage: owner exempt, City repairs (§ 13.10.119).
Is there any cost help for tree roots in Riverside, CA?
The § 13.10.119 exemption shifts City-street-tree root damage off the owner. No separate rebate.
What is this based on for Riverside, CA?
This verdict is sourced to Riverside Municipal Code § 13.10.119 (exemption for City-owned street-tree damage) and 2 sources in total, each independently re-checked before publication.
Sources
- Riverside Municipal Code § 13.10.119 (exemption for City-owned street-tree damage)official · verified-official · accessed 2026-09-09
- Riverside Municipal Code § 13.10.010 (owner baseline sidewalk-maintenance duty)official · verified-official · accessed 2026-09-09
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