Legal Question in Disability Law in Pennsylvania

Handicap Parking

My wife recently aquired a handicap placard for our vehicle. I called our local city hall to ask about a parking sign to park.The space to park is located across the street from our residence. The city tells me that I must have permission from the OWNER of the property to put it there. Im confused to the matter. I thought the city has ownership of the PUBLIC sidewalk. The residence that the sign would be in front of has burned to the ground. It was not occupied. The city tore the remaining frame of the home down. There are 5 VACANT city lots now. Two of the lots are full of garbage and are becoming a terrible nuisance. The city IS aware of this also, but has done nothing to clean this up either. They tell me I must have permission from the OWNER of the property to put the sign there. Is there any other way to get my wife her sign? There is no parking on OUR side of the street. I wish there were. This man that owns the property is no where to be found. They have searched for him. There is no way he would give permission for our sign anyway. I thought the city would be able to make a decision in this unusual case, since they OWN the sidewalk? Can you help us please?? Any info would be greatly appreciated!!


Asked on 3/25/08, 3:04 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: Handicap Parking

You asked about getting a handicap space on your block.

You are incorrect that the city owns the sidewalk. The property owner usually owns the sidewalk in front of their home. In most jurisdictions the property owner is responsible for maintenance, and repair (shoveling snow, sweeping, picking up garbage, even repairing or replacing the sidewalk). As a rule many jurisdictions will repair sidewalks, but some now even charge to repair a sidewalk in front of property.

As to the placard, you can gain permission via various means. Either directly or indirectly. The laws in you locality will determine how to get permission or to gain assent through such means as publication.

Regards,

Roger

Read more
Answered on 3/25/08, 8:50 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Disability Discrimination Law (ADA) questions and answers in Pennsylvania