Introducing the North Washington Street Sidewalk Policy Havre de GraceIntroducing the North Washington Street Sidewalk Policy Havre de Grace Sidewalk Policy Updated: October 7, 2025 Introducing the North Washington Street Sidewalk Policy This ordinance was requested by the Administration for introduction by the City Council. Ordinance 1210 An essential guide for business owners on the 100 and 200 blocks of North Washington Street. Ordinance Approval Timeline This policy is moving through the City Council for official adoption. The public is encouraged to attend the meetings below. First Reading & Introduction (Completed) October 6 ✅ Monday at 7:00 PM NEXT STEP: Public Hearing October 20 🚨 Monday at 7:00 PM Anticipated Final Passage November 4 7:00 PM The Three Sidewalk Zones To ensure pedestrian safety and accessibility, the sidewalk in front of your business will be governed by three distinct zones under the new Chapter 150. All measurements are taken directly from the linear edge of the street curb. All items must stay within your property’s frontage. STREET 🚗 ZONE 3 Signage Zone Distance: 3ft to 5ft from curb 🪧 ALLOWED: One temporary sign per business which promotes the business and is placed directly in front of the Business Owner’s area of sidewalk. (max 4ft high). PROHIBITED: Furniture & Items for Sale ZONE 2 Pedestrian Corridor Distance: 5ft to 11ft from curb 🚶♀️🚶♂️ MUST REMAIN CLEAR & UNOBSTRUCTED AT ALL TIMES ZONE 1 Commerce Zone Distance: 11ft+ from curb 🪑☕ ALLOWED: Furniture, items for sale, decorations. BUSINESS 🏬 Key Rules at a Glance 📏 Property Frontage Rule All items must stay within your property’s frontage. ⏰ Business Hours Only All items in Zone 3 must be removed when your business is closed. 📝🚫 No Paperwork Required No separate application or permit is needed specifically for using the sidewalk under this policy; however, a valid Use and Occupancy (U&O) Permit is mandatory. ⚠️ Emergency Removal The Mayor may order immediate removal of all items for public safety at the owner’s expense. Enforcement 1st First Violation A Written Warning is issued. Item removal required within 12 hours of written notice. » 2nd Second Violation An increased civil fine of $150. Must occur within the preceding 12 months. » 3rd Third Violation (Final) A fine of $150 and Revocation of the special privilege to use the sidewalk. Must occur within the preceding 12 months. Variances for Narrow Sidewalks A variance may be granted if your sidewalk is less than 11 feet wide. Applications are reviewed case-by-case to ensure a safe pedestrian corridor can still be maintained. Questions? Contact the City Planning Department.
