Asheville Asks: Who is responsible for keeping streets and sidewalks clear?

Who is responsible for keeping streets and sidewalks clear?

According to the City ordinance (Section 15-5), property owners or tenants must keep areas that touch their property — sidewalks, grass strips, curbs, gutters, half of adjoining alleys, and the right-of way (ROW)  up to the edge of the street — free of trash and overgrown vegetation. That includes mowing, weed control, and trimming so sidewalks and gutters are not blocked. 

What does the City do if this cleanup work isn’t done? 

The City’s first priority is education. If a hazard is reported repeatedly and owners don’t respond after notices, the City may issue a written order with a 30-day correction period.

If hazards are not corrected, the City can perform the work and bill the property owner. For immediate safety risks, the City may act sooner to protect the public.

Can I remove a tree or shrub or plant in the right of way? 

Section 20-21: You cannot remove, cut, trim, or plant trees/shrubs rooted in the public right-of-way or on City property without a permit. If you want to plant in the ROW, get a permit first. Utility companies may perform routine trimming under City standards but need permits to remove trees. To receive a permit, contact City Arborist Mark Foster at mfoster@ashevillenc.gov. 

Why is this important? 

Aside from being required by the City ordinance, clear, well-maintained Rights-Of-Way (ROW) make Asheville safer, more accessible, and more pleasant to live in.

• Safer routes for pedestrians, people using wheelchairs or strollers, bicyclists, and drivers.
• Fewer trip hazards, better lines of sight at intersections, and clearer travel corridors.
• Improved neighborhood appearance and community pride.
• Prevents situations where people must walk in the street to get around overgrown vegetation in sidewalks.

How do I keep my right of way compliant?

• Do regular seasonal checks — at minimum in spring and fall.
• After storms: Clear debris promptly to keep sidewalks and gutters safe.
• When you or neighbors notice sightlines blocked at intersections, or sidewalks that force pedestrians into the roadway.

How do I know what to trim? 

1. Identify the ROW boundary — generally the sidewalk, grass strip, curb, and up to the pavement edge along your property. (If unsure, contact Public Works at 828-259-5935 for help.) Neighbors should work together to agree on who will trim the overgrowth. City staff is not available to resolve disputes among neighbors. 
2. Walk the edge of your property and look for:
   1. Branches overhanging sidewalks at head/eye level.
   2. Shrubs or grass encroaching onto the walking surface.
   3. Plants blocking sightlines at intersections or driveways.
3. Trim hedges and low branches so sidewalks have a clear width and height for wheelchairs and strollers. Prune branches high enough to allow safe passage and good visibility. See this guide on how to prune your trees.
4. Remove stacked debris away from the sidewalk and gutter. Follow City brush and debris collection schedules when disposing of woody debris.
5. If a tree is rooted in the ROW, do not remove or cut it without a permit — contact Public Works or the City Arborist.
6. Report hazards or large trees that may be unsafe using the Asheville App or by contacting Public Works

I rent—am I responsible?

Maintenance responsibility depends on your lease. Renters should contact their landlord or property manager; landlords are accountable for ensuring the property meets ordinance requirements.