Upper Darby Township requires permits for the construction, reconstruction, and repair of sidewalks, curbs, driveway aprons, and curb ramps located within the public right-of-way.

Sidewalk permits are required to ensure that all work is performed in accordance with Township ordinances, PennDOT standards, ADA requirements, and applicable safety regulations.

It is unlawful to construct, reconstruct, or repair any sidewalk, curb, driveway apron, or curb ramp within the public right-of-way without first obtaining a Sidewalk Permit.

Sidewalk permits help ensure safe pedestrian access, proper drainage, accessibility compliance, and uniform construction standards throughout the Township.

Permit Requirements (Township Code – Chapter 472)

In accordance with Chapter 472 of the Upper Darby Township Code, a permit is required prior to any construction, reconstruction, or repair of sidewalks, curbs, driveway aprons, or curb ramps within the public right-of-way.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Construction of new sidewalks
• Repair or replacement of existing sidewalks
• Construction or repair of curbs
• Installation or replacement of driveway aprons
• Construction of ADA curb ramps
• Any work impacting pedestrian pathways within the right-of-way

Responsibility of Property Owners

Property owners are responsible for the construction, repair, and maintenance of sidewalks, curbs, and driveway aprons along their property frontage when directed by the Township.

Upon receiving written notice from the Township, property owners must complete the required work at their own cost and expense.

Failure to complete required work may result in further action in accordance with Township procedures.

Who May Apply for and Perform Work Under a Sidewalk Permit

Sidewalk permits may be applied for by:

• Contractors who are properly licensed and meet all Township and State requirements

All work must be performed by qualified contractors who are properly licensed and insured in accordance with Township requirements.

Property owners are not permitted to perform sidewalk, curb, or driveway apron construction within the public right-of-way unless otherwise authorized by the Township.

Licensing Requirements

All contractors performing sidewalk-related work must comply with Township requirements, including:

• Valid contractor licensing (as applicable)
• Proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance
• Naming Upper Darby Township as an additional insured
• Execution of required indemnification and hold harmless agreements

Failure to comply may result in permit denial or revocation.

When a Sidewalk Permit is Required

A Sidewalk Permit is required for any work involving:

• New sidewalk installation
• Replacement of damaged or deteriorated sidewalks
• Curb construction or repair
• Driveway apron installation or reconstruction
• Installation of ADA-compliant curb ramps
• Any alteration of pedestrian pathways within the right-of-way

Before You Apply

Prior to submitting a Sidewalk Permit application, applicants should:

• Confirm property frontage and limits of work
• Review Township specifications and requirements
• Identify any accessibility (ADA) requirements
• Prepare a scope of work and layout
• Identify contractor information (if applicable)

Incomplete applications will delay review.

Application Requirements

A complete Sidewalk Permit application must include:

• Completed permit application form
• Description of proposed work
• Location of work (property frontage)
• Contractor information (if applicable)
• Any required plans or details

Additional documentation may be required depending on the scope of work.

Plan Review and Approval

Applications are reviewed to ensure:

• Compliance with Township construction standards
• Compliance with PennDOT specifications
• Compliance with ADA accessibility requirements
• Proper grading and drainage
• Safe pedestrian access

The Township may impose conditions on permits to ensure proper construction and safety.

Construction Standards

All sidewalk, curb, and driveway apron work must comply with Township requirements and PennDOT Publication 408 and 72M standards.

Key requirements include:

• Sidewalk Width:
  • Residential areas: minimum 4 feet
  • Commercial areas: minimum 6 feet (unless otherwise approved)
• Sidewalk Construction:
  • Minimum 4 inches of concrete
  • Installed on a properly compacted stone base
  • Nonskid finish required
• Driveway Aprons:
  • Minimum 6 inches of concrete
  • Reinforcement required
  • Must match existing conditions unless otherwise approved
• Curbs:
  • Constructed to Township specifications
  • Proper dimensions and reinforcement required
• ADA Requirements:
  • Curb ramps required at intersections
  • Must include detectable warning surfaces
  • Must comply with all federal, state, and accessibility standards

Restoration and Maintenance Requirements

All work must:

• Restore disturbed areas to equal or better condition
• Maintain proper slope and drainage
• Ensure smooth transitions between surfaces
• Be completed in accordance with Township timelines

Property owners remain responsible for ongoing maintenance of sidewalks and adjacent areas.

Inspections

The Township may perform inspections to ensure compliance with permit requirements.

Inspections may include:

• Construction inspection
• Final inspection

The permittee is responsible for notifying the Township upon completion of work.

Permit Duration and Conditions

• Permits are issued for a specified period based on the scope of work
• Work must be completed within the approved timeframe
• Permits may not be transferred without Township approval
• All permit conditions must be followed

Permittee Responsibilities

The permittee is responsible for:

• Completing work in accordance with Township standards
• Ensuring safe work conditions
• Protecting pedestrian access during construction
• Repairing any damage caused by construction
• Coordinating with the Township as required

Fees and Payments

Permit fees are established in accordance with the Township Fee Schedule.

Payments may be made:

• Online
• By check or money order

Cash is not accepted.

Fees are subject to change. Please contact the Township to verify the most current fee schedule.

Important Reminders

• A Sidewalk Permit is required before any work begins
• Property owners are responsible for sidewalk maintenance and repairs
• All work must comply with Township, PennDOT, and ADA standards
• Sidewalks must remain safe and accessible during construction
• Proper grading and drainage must be maintained
• The Township may require corrections or additional work if standards are not met

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to repair my sidewalk?
Yes. Any construction, repair, or replacement of sidewalks within the public right-of-way requires a Sidewalk Permit.

Who is responsible for sidewalk repairs?
Property owners are responsible for sidewalks along their property frontage when directed by the Township.

Do sidewalks need to meet ADA requirements?
Yes. All applicable accessibility requirements must be met.

Can I do the work myself?
Work must be performed by qualified contractors unless otherwise authorized by the Township.

Will the Township inspect the work?
Yes. Inspections may be conducted to ensure compliance.

Contact the Department of Licenses & Inspections

For questions regarding Sidewalk Permits, please contact the Department of Licenses & Inspections.

Email: LI@UpperDarby.org
Phone: 610-734-7613

Residents may also submit inquiries or report concerns through the Township One Center.

To submit a concern, email One@UpperDarby.org or call the One Center Request Line at 610-734-7625.