It is not uncommon to need to navigate through scaffolding structures while walking the streets of Brooklyn. While these important tools for construction have long been a staple of the borough’s skyline, change is on the horizon. The New York City Council has enacted new legislation targeting scaffolding, with the goal of revitalizing the streets of New York. Three important changes include a shortened permit duration period, enhanced lighting requirements, and penalties for delays.
#1: Shortened permit duration
The changes reduce the duration for sidewalk shed permits related to façade repairs from one year to three months. Exceptions are available if the delay is linked to demolition, building alteration, or new construction.
#2: Enhanced lighting requirements
The changes also require LED lighting under sidewalk sheds. These lights must be adjustable to prevent excess brightness in nearby homes.
#3: Penalties for delays
There are also new penalties for property owners who delay necessary repairs to sidewalk sheds, with increased fines for prolonged shed presence. The penalties would apply when the property owner seeks a permit renewal. Property owners are also required to provide proof of work done since the last time they had a renewal for the sidewalk shed or documentation to explain delays.
The Council has made it clear that they are no longer allowing scaffolding to stay up for years on end. Councilmembers further state that their push to “restore beauty” to the city will not come at the cost of safety. It is important to follow how the city applies these new rules to determine if this is true.
These changes do not impact the New York Scaffold Law. Construction workers, pedestrians, and others injured as a result of a fall can still use this legal tool to hold responsible parties financially accountable for their injuries.