April 3, 2025

NYC Sidewalk Shed Overhaul: What Building Owners Must Know

Category
Announcement | Building Code | NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) | Street Closure
Tag
, , ,

ESSENTIAL UPDATES FOR BUILDING OWNERS

The New York City Council has passed legislation to improve sidewalk shed management, focusing on safety, aesthetics, and efficiency. With over 8,400 scaffolding structures citywide—many standing for years—these reforms aim to reduce their prolonged presence, enhance design, and enforce stricter regulations.

Key Changes Under the New Sidewalk Shed Bills:

  • New Design Standards – The DOB must propose updated sidewalk shed designs by September 30, 2025, prioritizing safety and aesthetics.
  • Expanded Color Options – Property owners can now select from a broader range of colors, provided they maintain uniformity across sheds and fences.
  • Increased Shed Height – The minimum height rises from 8 to 12 feet, except where it would obstruct windows, ventilation, or exits.
  • Stricter Permit Durations – Shed permits for façade repairs now expire in 3 months instead of a year. Renewals require proof of progress, with penalties for inactive scaffolding.
  • Façade Inspection Changes – The DOB will review NYC’s FISP program by December 31, 2025, with proposed adjustments including:
    • Extending the inspection cycle from 5 to 6-12 years.
    • Delaying the first FISP filing for new buildings from 5 to 9 years
  • Enhanced Lighting – Sidewalk sheds must use brighter LED lighting with shields or adjustable fixtures to minimize glare for nearby residents.
  • Stronger Penalties – Increased fines for delays, including:
    • Failure to submit construction documents within 5 months.
    • Not filing permit applications within 8 months.
    • Incomplete repairs beyond 2 years (extensions require documentation).

With these reforms taking effect, building owners should begin evaluating their current scaffolding structures, permit statuses, and compliance strategies. Proactively addressing these changes can help avoid penalties and ensure smoother project execution under the new regulations.

For more details or assistance, contact us at info@kmaofny.com or call us at 212-563-6760. We’re happy to help!

Previous Post All Posts