FAQs • Aberdeen, SD • CivicEngage

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Engineering

1. Who is responsible for the home irrigation systems in the boulevard of my property: Irrigation systems that are located in the bouldevard or on Public Right of Way are the responsibility of the homeowner. When work is being done in the Right of Way, such as Curb & Gutter, Corner Ramps or bike paths, private irrigation systems are often encountered. If damage happens to occur to and irrigation system, the property owner is the responsible party to make the repairs. Applications & Permits

2. Who is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk in front of my house?: The property owner is responsible for the repair and maintenance of sidewalks, by state law. Any property owner who fails to maintain their sidewalk in a safe condition is considered negligent in their duties as a property owner, and is liable for injuries that may occur due to its lack of maintenance.

It is further required that property owners or renters of property within the City of Aberdeen shovel the snow from their sidewalk to allow for pedestrian passage. If ice and snow build up, the property owner must make every effort to clear that snow and use salt, sand, or other materials to prevent it from becoming slippery.

3. Who is responsible for maintenance of the water and sewer service lines leading to my home?: The property owner is responsible for all piping and appurtenances that are not part of the water or sewer main. Problems such as water leaks, broken or inoperable water shut-off, blockages, or freezing that occur in the service lines are the responsibility of the property owner or tenant to rectify.
A list of licensed contractors is available from the Engineering or Public Works departments at (605) 626-7010. Visual Example of Service Line

4. How do I get the settled curb and gutter replaced in front of my home?: The city budgets for curb and gutter replacement annually. The current city policy is to repair areas that are also going through our normal patching and chip sealing program. Other areas will be looked at, but unless a serious safety hazard exists, areas will be completed during the patch and sealing program. Call the Engineering Department at (605) 626-7017 for information.

5. What can I do about my neighbor's drainage coming onto my lot?: There is not currently an ordinance that directly deals with a property owner's rights in this situation. It is recommended that the property owners try to work out a mutually beneficial solution between them.

Normally, a drainage swale can be created on the property between the homes to direct the drainage to the street or backyard and away from structures. If a solution cannot be worked out to the satisfaction of the property owners, and one property owner feels they are being damaged by the other property owner, it is a civil matter, which may require appropriate legal counsel to resolve the matter.

6. Who is responsible for maintenance of the street lights in Aberdeen?: The City of Aberdeen owns and maintains lights along most major roadways in the community. The city has a contract with Northwestern Energy to install and maintain street lights in other areas of the community. If you notice that a street light is out, please call (605) 626-7010 and report the location. The necessary repairs will be made as soon as possible.

7. Who should I have locate my property lines?: Local engineering firms provide surveying services for private landowners. A list of licensed land surveyors is available in the Yellow Pages under Surveyors-Land. The city does not provide this service for private landowners.

Major road improvements currently scheduled include:

9. How can I get my alley paved?: Many neighborhoods have decided they would like to have a paved alley. The city does not pay for the improvements, however, it will provide many of the services needed to reduce the costs to adjacent landowners. View more details.

10. What permits are required from the Engineering Department: Any time you contemplate performing work in the Public Right of Way, permits will be needed.