A right-of-way obstruction can be any structure, object or vegetation that may prevent or impede the full and free use of the entire sidewalk by the public. Right-of-way can include streets, sidewalks and in some cases alleys.

Many pedestrians with disabilities, children and seniors depend heavily on clear sidewalks and pathways. They are often times unable to move an item like a sign off of the sidewalk to continue on their journey. Over grown shrubs and trees also force pedestrians to walk out into the street to get around the obstruction. Limbs from trees overhanging into the street cause motorists to veer around the obstruction and can cause an accident.

Some examples of right-of-way obstructions: piles of brush, landscaping debris, items being sold, trees or shrubs overhanging, retaining walls, recreational vehicles and cars parked over the sidewalk and any other obstructions that prevent free and clear use of the right-of-way.