Three situations, three paths
If your sidewalk needs repair
A licensed contractor permitted by the City must do the repairs. After the work, the contractor self-certifies that it meets code and files the Sidewalk Certificate of Compliance through the OakDOT Permit Counter. You don't have to wait for a City inspection.
If your sidewalk does not need repair
A licensed contractor, engineer or architect still self-certifies that the sidewalk complies and files the certificate. Again, no City inspection wait.
If your property has no sidewalk
You can file for a no-fee certificate yourself at the OakDOT Permit Counter. Bring recent photos of the sidewalk zone. No contractor needed.
How do I know if my sidewalk needs repair?
Under federal ADA guidelines, any crack, dip or raised edge of more than ¼ inch counts as a defect.
What documents are needed?
Anything that supports the application: the inspection report, a detailed contractor invoice, and before and after photos. These are scanned into the City's permit record.
Selling soon? Do both at once
Most Oakland sellers need the sidewalk certificate and an EBMUD sewer lateral certificate. We can handle both in one visit and one estimate, so neither one holds up escrow. About the EBMUD certificate.
City of Oakland sidewalk certification FAQ (opens in a new tab)