Right of way FAQs

Learn what the right of way is and where it's typically located.

State law requires that underground utilities such as power or gas lines or water pipes be located in advance of ANY digging (greater than 12 inches for agricultural purposes) within the right of way.

This is to both protect the underground utility and the excavator. You are seeing the results of an excavator's request for "locates" within the general area of proposed work. The lines may be for planning purposes to identify possible areas for new utility installation or for maintenance purposes. Each color reflects the presence of a specific type of utility and its general running direction.

Bellevue differs from many other jurisdictions by maintaining and repairing the majority of its sidewalks. The city has specific standards that determine when a sidewalk will be repaired.

Our sidewalk maintenance team inspects all arterial sidewalks once per year. The team cycles through one of the five maintenance districts each year for a complete sidewalk inspection. Those sidewalk repairs are then scheduled for the following year or construction season after the inspection.

It is important to note that driveway approaches are not maintained by the Streets Department.

Customers can report sidewalk defects at any time by calling 425-452-7840. Reported defects are inspected and mitigated with sheet mix asphalt until the maintenance cycle reaches that district. If you have any immediate concerns or notice a defect, please contact us, and we will address the issue promptly.

Repair, replacement or establishment of a driveway apron is the responsibility of the homeowner. A right of way use permit is required for this work as it often forces changes to curb, gutter, sidewalk, drainage or other infrastructure.

It is illegal at any time for a vehicle to be parked on a public sidewalk without the issuance of a right of way use permit from the city. When permitted, the sidewalk must be signed as closed and a viable, ADA-compliant alternate pedestrian route identified.

Since Bellevue has few alleys, there is going to be an inherent conflict with cans and pedestrian facilities on collection day. It is important to be a good neighbor and consider others when placing your cans out. Try to maintain the greatest amount of room possible on the sidewalk and remove your cans as soon as possible following collection. Cans should be removed from the right of way within 24 hours.

While the City of Bellevue endorses fun and recreation, safety is in our top priority. Basketball hoops, hockey nets and other toys placed in the public right of way create an inherent safety conflict between players and motorists. If your hoop or toys are on the street or blocking the sidewalk you may get a letter from the City of Bellevue requiring its removal.

Deliveries must be done off the street and the materials covered if not immediately spread. You may be held responsible for any run-off that enters city stormwater systems.