Public Works Division
Sidewalk Replacement Program

In an effort to promote safety in Canton neighborhoods, as well as improve the appearance of the community, Canton has adopted a sidewalk ordinance and program. Sidewalks are inspected in designated neighborhoods on an annual basis in order to determine if any portion of the sidewalk is in need of replacement. If, after inspection, the township determines that a homeowner's sidewalk is in need of repair, the homeowner will be notified accordingly. Sidewalk repairs can be handled using three options which are outlined in the "Sidewalk Program Brochure" (PDF file, 389KB) brochure.

2008 Program

The following subdivisions will be participating in the 2008 Sidewalk Replacement Program; Sunflower Village 6-11, Brentwood Estates, Embassy Square and Miscellaneous Locations.

Canton’s Utility Inspector will place "Green Dots" denoting resident responsibility and "Red Dots" denoting Township responsibility for all sidewalk repairs. All subdivision ramps will be replaced in order to meet the guidelines set by the American Disabilities Act (ADA). Sidewalk Program brochures were mailed to property owners to help answer commonly asked questions.

Once Inspections have been completed, a Public Hearing for Necessity of Repairs will be held. Notification letters will also be sent out and will include estimated quantity of sidewalk and unit prices for 4-inch and 6-inch (driveway approaches) thick sidewalk. Property Owner’s have 60 days to complete repairs after the Public Hearing. Sidewalk repair construction is anticipated to begin in late July and be completed by late fall. For more information, please call Canton’s Public Works Division at 734/394-5150.

Sidewalk Program  - Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  Why are the sidewalks in my subdivision being inspected?

A.  The sidewalks in you subdivision are being inspected to determine if any portion of the sidewalk is in need of replacement.  this inspection is being done as part of Sidewalk Code of Ordinances - Chapter 62.

Q.  Why does Canton have a sidewalk program?

A.  This program was implemented in an effort to promote safety in Canton neighborhoods, as well as improve the appearance of the community.  We know you take pride in your property and want to preserve its value.  Sidewalk maintenance is important to both appearance and value.  Moreover, it may save a pedestrian from injury and you from an expensive lawsuit.

Q.  What happens if the utility inspector determines that my sidewalk needs to be replaced?

A.  Once your sidewalk is inspected, you will be notified by mail if any replacements need to be made, along with a Notice of Public Hearing for the necessity of the sidewalk repairs.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding the replacements, please call Canton's Public Works Division at 734/394-5150.

If the inspector determines that all or portions of the sidewalk in front of your home needs to be replaced, there are three options you may choose from to handle the replacements:

Option #1:  Hire a licensed contractor to replace the sidewalk.  Your contractor will need to secure a permit from Building and Inspection Services.

Option #2:  You may choose to replace the marked sidewalk yourself.  You will need to secure a permit from Building and Inspection Services prior to commencement of work.

Option #3:  If you decide not to complete the sidewalk repairs within 60 day of notification, Canton will automatically have the work completed under the township's contract and will obtain the necessary permits.  You will be billed at cost and if the payment isn't received by the due date or you are unable to pay the bill, a processing fee will be added and the total sum will be placed as a lien on you tax bill, payable over five years including annual interest.

Q.  What if the township's utility caused by sidewalk to need replacement?

A.  Canton will assume the responsibility of replacing sidewalks that are damaged due to a water service lead.  Water or sanitary structures located within the sidewalk will also be reparied at cost to the township. These slabs will be marked with a red dot.

Q.  May I have private work done by the township's contractor?

A.  The contractor may elect to do private work although he/she is not obligated to do so.  With all private work, you and the contractor negotiate the terms, including cost and payment.  Proper permits must be obtained from Canton's Building and Inspection Services prior to construction.

Q.  Will Canton remove a tree that is damaging my sidewalk?

A.  For aesthetic and ecological reasons, Canton does not remove trees for the public road right-of-way.  Contact Wayne County Forestry at 734/522-7370 to remove the tree.

Q.  Will my lawn need to be restored after the work?

A.  Within a short time, it should restore itself.  usually only a few inches of grass adjacent to the defective sidewalk is uprooted.  This strip is filled with topsoil and seed after the concrete forms are removed.  Sod will not be laid in the interest of keeping repair costs to a minimum.  The adjacent grass normally spreads quickly to the edge of the walk.  Areas of restoration will also occur in the right-of-way between the curb and sidewalk due to equipment used by the contractor to remove and construct the sidewalk.

Q.  What about sprinkler systems or invisible fences for pets?

A.  The contractor will repair the sprinkler line or head if damaged during construction located within the right-of-way.  Property owners must notify Canton Township within 60 days if they have an invisible fence.  Otherwise, damage resulting from sidewalk repairs will be the property owner's responsibility.

Q.  How long before I can drive on the concrete on my driveway?

A.  You may walk on the concrete 24 hours after it has been poured; however, no vehicle should be placed on the pavement for seven days.

Q.  Who should I call if I have any questions regarding Canton's Sidewalk Replacement Program?

A.  You can call Canton Public Works at 734/394-5150,  Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sidewalk Program Publications

• Sidewalk Program Brochure
• Example of Notification Letter
• Sidewalk Repair Program Four Year Master Sub Map (2007 - 2010)
• 2008 Sidewalk Repair Program Power Point