But if there were a claim that were specific to my property (ice on the sidewalk, for example) then we could be seen as jointly responsible: me, because it's my property, and them because they are responsible for its maintenance.

Try a silver cup on a sidewalk and wear a sign.

Other requirements could include side walks, storm water control, street trees, street lights, and running all utilities to the lots, including electric, gas, phone, cable plus water and sewer.There could be current zoning requirements that require larger lots than those platted maybe 50-60 years ago. 

If they can catch you coming down the sidewalk and corner you it forces you to do what they need then and there, you can't even take care of things on your own timeline.

The neighborhood is “OK”, it does not have a fenced yard, no sidewalks (so it's just street then my front yard) and the both bedrooms are on the small side.

There's only been one time that I could not find a shutoff....someone had used the city main at the sidewalk to shutoff the water, removed the house main shutoff valve and connected it directly instead of just replacing the valve :shock:

Alex, my Jack Russell will have to deal with walks on the sidewalk and getting exercise at the local park.

Clearing snow of the sidewalk, maybe.

Thats not a pool its a circular sidewalk and a garden .

In addition to all of this, home has a detached garage with a sidewalk leading to it.