Any person desiring or required to build, replace or repair any sidewalk within the city, before commencing any construction work thereon, except where sidewalks are to be laid in accordance with the provisions of special improvement resolutions, must file an application for a permit therefor with the Clerk-Treasurer to be transmitted by him or her to the Board of Public Works and Safety, which application shall be signed by the owner or agent of the abutting property where such sidewalk is to be built, replaced or repaired.
(`94 Code, § 95.16)