Maintaining clear sidewalks and rights-of-way
Though Hood River hasn’t experienced significant snowfall since late December, cooperation and compliance to keep the City’s right-of-way clear is important in every season. Snow and ice, fallen spring blossoms or debris, obstructing shrubs or branches, and loose leaves all require attention.
City right-of-way is the area designated for public streets, sidewalks, and utilities. City code requires property owners to maintain sidewalks and curbs adjacent to City streets abutting their property in safe, serviceable condition for pedestrians and vehicles. This includes keeping sidewalks clear as well as maintaining tree well growth, brush pruning, preventative maintenance, and removal.
Snow clearance, sidewalk maintenance and vegetation trimming are explained at cityofhoodriver.gov/public-works, with a link to code compliance details for City of Hood River Municipal Code Chapter 13.20.
City code related to public right-of-way must be followed in the City limits in all seasons. This past December and early January, swaths of snow-covered sidewalks were unpassable where City code was not followed. Street parking is also restricted during significant snowfall for snow plowing. For future reference, winter streets regulations are located at: cityofhoodriver.gov/public-works/streets/winter-street-information.
These shrubs make it nearly impossible to use this sidewalk
Properly trimmed back, these shrubs are properly maintained
Right-of-way safety — As we transition to springtime, City Public Works reminds residents and businesses to clear sidewalks and streets of low-lying branches on trees and shrubs. Maintaining both horizontal and vertical clearance is important for users of City right-of-way. Trees and brush should not extend into sidewalk or street areas.
Keep storm drains clear — Businesses and residents are reminded not to rake or blow leaves or debris into gutters or streets as they can plug storm drains (a violation of the Hood River Municipal Code). If there are catch basins by your property, please help keep them clear to keep water draining and streets from flooding.
Trim trees in right-of-way – Spring and fall are good times to trim trees in the public right-of-way. Keep trees and brush from extending into the sidewalk. Street and alley corners should have visual clearance of 15 feet from a corner. More info is on this page: cityofhoodriver.gov/trim-trees-in-city-right-of-way.