[jfoks]

There is a disconnect in ownership between roads and sidewalks that makes it all very political: "Sidewalks in front of homes can be a source of puzzlement over just who or what owns them. Generally, each state sets its own laws about ownership of property, including sidewalks in front of homes and buildings. Certain states say that sidewalks are owned by the cities, towns or other municipalities having jurisdiction. In California, for example, sidewalks in front of homes and businesses are owned by their municipalities, but their upkeep is to be handled by those homes and businesses."

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/sidewalks-considered-homeowners...