Welcome to the Township of Lower Merion's online guide for sidewalk installation and replacement. Here, you will find information about the Township’s standards and requirements for new sidewalk installation and replacement.

Replacing an Existing Sidewalk

If you're planning to replace an existing sidewalk, there are specific requirements to follow to ensure compliance with the Township’s process and ADA standards:

1. Minimum Width: The sidewalk must be a minimum of 36 inches wide.
2. Sidewalk Corners: If the corner of an existing sidewalk is being completely replaced and it is located across the street from another sidewalk, then the replaced sidewalk corner must comply with ADA standards where feasible.
3. Permit Requirement: You must obtain a Highway Permit before beginning any work. The cost of a Highway permit for sidewalks includes a $37 administrative fee, plus $28 for the first 10 feet of sidewalk and an additional $8 for each subsequent 10 feet.  Additional information on permit fees.

Installing a New Sidewalk

When installing a sidewalk along a new street or as part of a subdivision, there are additional design and construction requirements:

1. Minimum Width: New sidewalks must be between 5 and 8 feet wide. Additional details can be found on the Township E-Code.
2. Verge Requirement: A verge (the strip of land between the sidewalk and the street) must be included, ranging from 3 to 5 feet in width. Additional details can be found on the Township E-Code.
3. Sidewalk Corners: All new sidewalk corners are required to be ADA compliant where feasible.
4. Required Plans.  Along with your permit application, the Township will need to review stamped (by a licensed engineer) drawings for all new sidewalks to ensure compliance with the Township’s codes.
5. Permit Requirement: As with replacement projects, a Highway Permit is required. The fee structure remains the same: $37 administrative fee, $28 for the first 10 feet, and $8 for each additional 10 feet. Additional details can be found on the Township E-Code.

Obtaining and Closing a Highway Permit

To obtain and close a Highway Permit, follow these steps:

1. Application Submission: Submit your permit application, in person at the Public Works Counter, located at 75 E. Lancaster Ave, in Ardmore along with any necessary plans.
2. Fee Payment: Pay the required fees. The total cost will depend on the length of the sidewalk you are installing or replacing.
3. Approval: Once your application and payment are received and any submitted plans are reviewed, the Township will issue your permit. 
4. Pre-Pour Inspection: After you or your contractor have set up the sidewalk forms and before any concrete is poured, the assigned Public Works Inspector must be notified.  The Public Works Inspector will conduct a pre-pour inspection of the forms to ensure compliance with all the Township’s relevant codes and standards.
5. Permit Closeout: Following the completion of the sidewalk, a Public Works Inspector will conduct a final inspection and closeout your permit. 

Contact Information

For more information or assistance with your sidewalk project, please contact the Township's Public Works Department via in person at 75 East Lancaster Avenue Ardmore, PA 19003 or phone at 610-645-6150.

Thank you for helping to keep our community safe and accessible for all residents.

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