Property Owner Responsibilities

As a citizen of the City, you have the right to remove signs or any unapproved papers from public poles and property. Did you know that you are responsible for keeping the sidewalks and gutters that are next to your property clean and swept?

The code of the City of Richmond says that as a property owner, tenant, or in charge of a building used for conducting a business, you are responsible for sweeping any paved sidewalk or gutter once every 24 hours and could be held liable for a fine of up to $100. That includes snow too! Yes, really! Please do your part to help keep Richmond an attractive place.

Who is responsible for cutting the grass between the sidewalk and the curb, or in my alley?

You are. However, if there is a street tree that needs some trimming, don't attempt it yourself. Report it to 804-646-7000.

The wind last night blew down this big tree in my front yard. What do I do?

If the tree was located in the public right of way, the City is responsible. Call 804-646-7000 to report it. If the tree was on your property, you need to take care of it yourself.

Did you know that permitting grass and any other vegetation to grow above 12 inches, whether it is live or dead, is unlawful and certainly unattractive?

Of course the exception to the rule is trees, flowers, and garden vegetation as long as it does not protrude into the right-of-way or any other public street

Are you allowed to post signs along Richmond's streets?

No! As a citizen of the City, you have the right to remove signs or any other unapproved papers from public poles or property. Trash'em!

What do I do when I have excess junk to get rid of?

Of course you know that it is unlawful for a property owner to have trash, litter, junk, demolition materials or any unwanted items to accumulate in the yard, alley or public right-of-way.

• There will no longer be a $25 fee for collection of large items. Residents need only place large items such as furniture and brush out alongside their Supercans on normal refuse collection days. Those items will be removed within two weeks, or a special sameday service can be provided for a $100 fee.
• For appliance pickup please call 804-646-0999. You may charge the $50 fee to your utility Bill. Call 804-646-0999 for assistance.

What should I do during a major snow storm?

• Limit travel so as not to interfere with removal crews
• Keep parked cars off of main streets to speed up removal.
• Clear the snow on sidewalks adjacent to your property within 6 hours. of snow stopping. You can be held liable for any injuries sustained on your property.
• Call 804-780-5100 for emergency transportation.
• Call 804-646-7000 to volunteer to help with snow removal.

And above all, enjoy the snow!

What should I do if I notice something wrong, like a street light is burned out?

We need your help! Call 804-646-7000 anytime you notice something that needs fixing. You can help by being our eyes and ears.

Why does my front yard turn into a swimming pool when is rains, especially in the fall?

Keep leaves raked away from gutter and sewers so as not to clog them. Stick them in your supercan or regular leaf bags beside your supercan and we will pick it up.

For more information please e-mail us at Darlene.Mallory@richmondgov.com.

As a citizen of the City, you have the right to remove signs or any unapproved papers from public poles and property.