[OSM-newbies] What to do about alleys?

[Richard Weait]

On Fri, Oct 9, 2009 at 12:14 PM, Charlotte Wolter <techlady at techlady.com> wrote:
> Hello folks,
>
>         I'm pretty new to OSM. I've been cleaming up streets in my home
> town, Santa Monica, California, which is part of Los Angeles, and I have a
> question about how to handle alleys
>         Some of the alleys in Santa Monica have been marked as "footpaths,"
> but clearly they are not for foot traffic (C'mon, this is LA. No one walks.
> ;-)). In fact, in a rather unique situation, they actually have names. Most
> are called "court," as in 18th Court, which is the alley behind my apartment
> building on 18th street. However, in reality they are alleys, as most people
> understand the term in the United States, i.e., ways that run behind houses
> or apartments that face onto a residential street.
>         So, can anyone tell me how to tag them?  Many thanks in advance for
> your replies.

Welcome, Charlotte.

Variations according to local custom are to be expected as it is a big
planet.  Your mileage may vary, but I would start with:

highway=service
service=alley

and then perhaps add

oneway=yes # if appropriate
surface=gravel # or other value if not paved
access=private # if appropriate

Have fun!