Broken sidewalks are one of the most common issues we hear about from neighbors. Whether you’re walking, pushing a stroller, or using a mobility device, a single bad stretch can force you into the street. The frustrating part is that it’s not always clear who’s responsible or how to actually get it fixed. This guide walks through the fastest ways to take action, what to expect from the city, and how neighbors can work together to solve it.
Start Here
Report the issue (takes 2 minutes)
- Call 311 or use the HTX 311 / SeeClickFix app
- Select: Street Hzarad
- Cocern: Sidewalk / Curb – Street Hazard
- Add photos + exact location
Report through the SeeClickFix (Call 311)
After submitting this report, you will receive an email with the case number. Please forward this to your district councilmember (find out who that is here) and feel free to carbon-copy info@atotb.org). You may also include all the At-Large City Counci offices.
- Forward the case number to your district councilmember
- CC: info@atotb.org, atlarge1@houstontx.gov, atlarge2@houstontx.gov, atlarge3@houstontx.gov, atlarge4@houstontx.gov, atlarge5@houstontx.gov
The City tracks demand based on reports. More reports = higher priority.
If it’s an accessibility issue
You may be able to get it prioritized
If the sidewalk creates a barrier for:
- Wheelchairs
- Walkers or canes
- Mobility devices
You can fill out the form for Pedestrian Accessibility Review (PAR) through the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities
They can sometimes escalate cases where sidewalks create accessibility barriers.
Who is responsible?
In Houston, the property owner is responsible for sidewalk repairs
But:
- This is rarely enforced
- Many sidewalks go unrepaired for years
What this means for you: City reporting helps, but sometimes community action is faster.
Community Solution
Work with the property owner
Steps:
- Identify the adjacent property (Find out who owns the adjacent property)
- Reach out (in person or letter)
- Get a quote from a local contractor
- Explore cost-sharing if needed
Examples:
- Neighbors pitch in
- Parents organize (near schools/parks)
- Local businesses contribute
ATOTB can help:
We can help think through outreach, messaging, or fundraising ideas.
If there is no existing sidewalk
You may be able to request a new sidewalk through the City
Houston Public Works has a Sidewalk Program that builds new sidewalks along:
- Streets near schools
- Major thoroughfares without sidewalks
To qualify, the location typically must:
- Have no existing sidewalk
- Have space in the public right-of-way
- Not be scheduled for other construction in the next few years
What to expect:
This is a formal application process and projects are prioritized citywide, so timelines can be long.
You can apply through the Houston Public Works Sidewalk Program.
Long-Term Fixes
Capital improvement projects
Possible through:
- City Council District Service Funds
- TIRZ (Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones)
- METRO / corridor improvements
Timeline:
Typically 1–3 years from approval to construction.
Why this keeps happening?
Sidewalk repair is expensive — and underfunded
Houston currently lacks dedicated funding to systematically fix sidewalks.
What needs to happen:
A future mobility bond or dedicated funding source.
If you’ve reported an issue and aren’t seeing progress, or you’re not sure which path to take, feel free to reach out to us (info@atotb.org). We’re happy to help think through next steps, whether that’s working with the City, connecting with a property owner, or organizing neighbors around a solution. Fixing sidewalks can feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to be something you take on alone.
