In West Des Moines, a "Right-of-Way" is an area of land reserved for city infrastructure, such as roads, sidewalks, and underground utilities (water, gas, and electric lines).
Sidewalks and "Parking Areas"
The most common right-of-way for homeowners is the sidewalk and the grassy space between the sidewalk and the street (often called the "parking area").
Important Rules for Homeowners:
Avoid Obstructions: Because utilities are buried here, the City discourages planting trees or building structures in this area.
Repair Costs: If the City or a utility company needs to dig in this area, the property owner is responsible for the cost to fix any damaged private items (like irrigation systems or special landscaping).
Emergency Access: Obstructions like fences or thick brush can delay crews from fixing urgent issues like gas leaks.
Mailbox Safety and Rules
Mailboxes are allowed in the "parking area," but they must follow safety guidelines:
Safety First: Mailboxes must be "breakaway" designs. The City does not allow heavy stone or brick structures because they are dangerous if hit by a car, bike, or pedestrian.
Visibility: Mailboxes must not block a driver’s view of the street (see the Vision Triangle below).
Repairs: If a snowplow or City crew damages your mailbox, the City will only pay for the cost of a standard, regular-type mailbox, even if yours was a custom design.
The Vision Triangle
To keep neighbors safe, the area where a driveway meets the street must stay clear. This is called the Vision Triangle.
Keep this 15-foot area clear of tall plants and structures so drivers can see clearly.
Planting Rules:
You may plant flowers or grass around your mailbox, but the area cannot be larger than 8 square feet.
All plantings must be short enough that they do not block the Vision Triangle.
Trees in the right-of-way require prior approval from the City’s Urban Forestry Supervisor.
