Is it illegal to block a sidewalk in Texas? Here’s what the law says

In Texas, sidewalks are considered part of the public right-of-way and must remain accessible for pedestrians, including individuals using wheelchairs, mobility devices, strollers and bicycles.

You might park your car partially blocking a sidewalk and not think twice about it.

What's the big deal, right? People can just walk around.

Parking your car across or blocking a sidewalk might seem harmless, but it could be breaking the law.

Is it illegal to block a sidewalk when parking outside a home?

In Texas, sidewalks are considered part of the public right-of-way and must remain accessible for pedestrians, including individuals using wheelchairs, mobility devices, strollers and bicycles.

Even for Texans with driveways, your vehicle can't obstruct the sidewalk. While parking in the driveway may be convenient, cars cannot block the sidewalk or impede pedestrians passing by.

Per Texas law ( Tex. Transp. Code § 545.302), operators of a vehicle may not stop, stand or park a vehicle:

• On the roadway side of a vehicle stopped or parked at the edge or curb of a street
• On the sidewalk
• In an intersection or on a crosswalk

There are limited exceptions to this law.

The Texas Transportation Code allows a city’s governing body, under specific circumstances, to pass an ordinance regulating where vehicles may stand, stop or park in certain downtown areas if the city determines it is necessary for economic development and does not compromise public safety.

Can you get fined for blocking a sidewalk?

Under Texas law, the portion of a sidewalk that crosses a private driveway is still considered part of the public right-of-way or subject to a public-use easement.

While that land may technically be included in a homeowner’s property deed, the public has the right to use it without obstruction. This helps ensure sidewalks remain continuous and safe for pedestrians.

A consequence for blocking a sidewalk is a parking ticket. According to Legal Clarity, the fine amount varies by municipality but can range from about $30 to more than $100.

In some areas, fines can be steeper in designated zones or increase for repeat violations. For example, a first offense in some cities may range from $40 to $50.

Is it illegal to park in front of someone else's house in Texas?

In Texas, parking in front of someone's house is generally legal, as public streets are open for use by anyone unless local ordinances state otherwise. However, there are restrictions.

Here's what the Texas Transportation Code ( §545.302) says about parking in public places:

An operator may not stop, stand, or park a vehicle:

• On a sidewalk.
• At an intersection.
• On a crosswalk.
• Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or 20 feet of a crosswalk is prohibited.
• By blocking someone's driveway is prohibited.
• Or "double parking," a vehicle may not park in a way that blocks or obstructs the path of another vehicle.