NYC DOT - Infrastructure - Defacing City Property

The sidewalks, curbs and roadways are owned by the City of New York. However, property owners are responsible for maintaining their sidewalks. No one is allowed to illegally paint the sidewalk, curb or roadway to discourage parking, even if there is an existing driveway, garage, parking pad etc.

The City accepts reports of curb conditions through 311 online. You can report a curb that is illegally painted to discourage parking, or illegally cut for a driveway. You must provide the exact street address of the property where the condition exists.

A curb should be maintained, because it:

Facilitates the life of the sidewalk

Protects the sidewalks from vehicular traffic

Channels water properly to catch basins

Prevents erosion and ponding

A sidewalk should be maintained, to

Facilitate the life of the sidewalk

Prevent slips, trips or falls

DOT will inspect the condition of the curb, sidewalk and roadway at the location. Property owners are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their sidewalk. If a sidewalk, curb or roadway is found to be defaced, the property owner will be notified by a Notice of Defacement. Property owners are expected to restore the sidewalk, curb and/or roadway to its original state.

See more about Defacing City Property

Questions or comments regarding defacement can be sent to Defacements@dot.nyc.gov or call 212-839-8865.