Sidewalk repair and city repair notices

In Bismarck, property owners are responsible for repairing the public sidewalk in front of their property. Most repairs start when someone reports a hazard. According to testimony from the city engineer to the North Dakota Legislature in 2025, the city reviews reported areas and then notifies the owner of the hazard and the duty to repair it.

What are my options after a city notice?

Based on that same testimony:

• Hire your own contractor. You can hire a licensed and bonded contractor and pay them directly.
• Use the city's contractor. Many repairs are done under an annual contract the city lets, and owners who use it can choose to have the cost specially assessed against the property.
• Ask about timing. The city gives notice within the current construction season and, if the owner asks, extends the deadline to the following season.

Check your notice for the exact deadline and contact information, and call the city's Engineering Department at 701-355-1505 with questions about your specific notice.

Do I need a permit?

Yes, for sidewalk work in the right-of-way. The City of Bismarck requires a concrete permit to build or repair sidewalks, curbs and driveway aprons in the right-of-way, and the work must be done by a city-approved licensed and bonded contractor. The city's concrete contractor packet calls for a North Dakota Class D or higher contractor license and a $5,000 license/permit bond. Your contractor should pull the permit.

Lift it or replace it?

A panel that has sunk or tipped but is still in one piece can often be lifted back to level, which is quick and usually cheaper. A panel that is broken into pieces, badly heaved by roots, or crumbling on the surface usually needs to be removed and repoured. Ask the contractor whether lifting will satisfy the city's requirements for your specific hazard before you commit.

What else should I fix while they're there?

• The front walk from the sidewalk to your door
• Joints and cracks that let water under the panels
• The driveway apron where it meets the sidewalk

The contractor prices the job after seeing the slab and working out why it moved. We don't quote prices, and any number given over the phone is only a rough starting point.

Where we connect you with help

• Bismarck
• Mandan
• Lincoln

Related services

• Concrete leveling (mudjacking and foam)
• Driveway and garage apron repair
• Steps, stoops and patios
• Joint sealing and crack repair

More background: Bismarck concrete repair guide.