What is the walkway system?
The walkway system in Fairfax County consists of sidewalks, trails, and pedestrian bridges, along with their associated steps, handrails, handicapped ramps, or signs.
Who maintains the sidewalks, trails, and pedestrian bridges?
Sidewalks in the public street right-of-way (i.e., alongside public roads) generally are maintained either by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) (703-383-8368, TTY 711), or the Maintenance & Stormwater Management Division (703-934-2800, TTY 711). All public sidewalks constructed prior to 1981 are maintained by VDOT. Sidewalks along private roads, as in many homeowner/civic associations or commercial properties, are property owner responsibility.
Maintenance of trails (generally asphalt, stone dust, wood chip or natural surface) and pedestrian bridges may fall under different jurisdictions such as VDOT, the Maintenance & Stormwater Management Division, Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County Park Authority, the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, and homeowner/civic associations.
All vehicular bridges in public roadways are maintained by VDOT .
For assistance determining maintenance responsibility for a sidewalk or trail, please use the online Walkway Maintenance Request Form or call the Maintenance & Stormwater Management Division at 703-934-2800, TTY 711.
Who is responsible for clearing snow from the sidewalks?
Neither VDOT nor the county clears snow and ice from public walkways. In addition, neither the state nor the county has any legal requirement for property owners to clear public walkways. However, while not legally obligated, residents and businesses are asked to help keep walkways safe for the community. When possible they are asked to clear snow off the sidewalks in front of or next to their property so that pedestrians, especially school children, those with disabilities, and the elderly, may walk more safely.
Homeowner/civic associations may require members of their communities to clear walkways adjoining homeowner property. Please contact your association or property manager for further information.
How do I request a new trail or sidewalk?
Information on requesting new walkways is available from the Planning & Design Division, 703-324-5800, TTY 711.