NYC Council Advances Landmark Scaffolding Reform Legislation

The five-bill package aims to reduce the prevalence and duration of sidewalk sheds while improving their aesthetics and safety standards.

The New York City Council is set to pass a package of five bills to reform scaffolding regulations, with broad support from lawmakers and Mayor Eric Adams’ administration.
Proposed changes include reducing sidewalk shed permit durations from one year to 90 days and penalizing landlords who delay necessary construction work.
The reforms would extend facade inspection cycles for newer buildings from five to up to 12 years, decreasing the frequency of mandated scaffolding.
New requirements for improved aesthetics and safety include updated shed designs, expanded color options, and increased lighting standards.
The legislation addresses longstanding criticism of the city’s 8,400 sidewalk sheds, some of which have remained in place for years, negatively impacting urban aesthetics and local businesses.