New Legislation Targets Reduction of Scaffolding Across NYC
New York City, Thursday, 27 March 2025.
The NYC City Council approved new regulations on 2025-03-26 to decrease the number of scaffolding structures, shortening permits from one year to three months and improving aesthetic standards.
Comprehensive Reform Package
The legislative package, consisting of five distinct bills, marks a significant shift in New York City’s approach to urban infrastructure management. The reform introduces stricter timelines and enhanced penalties, with fines ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 for property owners who fail to complete facade repairs within the designated timeframe [1]. Currently, approximately 400 miles of New York City sidewalks are obscured by scaffolding structures [2], with an estimated 8,500 sidewalk sheds remaining in place for an average of 500 days [1].
Extended Inspection Intervals and Design Innovation
A key provision of the legislation pushes back facade inspection requirements for new buildings from five to eight years [1][5]. The Department of Buildings has been granted authority to extend facade inspection intervals up to 12 years [2], representing a significant shift in compliance requirements. The reform also addresses aesthetic concerns, with Intro 391A mandating the Department of Buildings to recommend new sidewalk shed designs by September 2025 and expand beyond the traditional hunter-green color palette [1].
Industry Response and Implementation
The Real Estate Board of New York has expressed support for the initiative while noting that certain aspects still require refinement during the rulemaking process [1]. Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo emphasized that the new regulations are designed to motivate property owners toward swifter property repairs [2]. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine highlighted that these regulations already exceed standards in other U.S. cities, stating: ‘This is a set of policy changes that people will notice’ [2].
Safety and Accessibility Improvements
The legislation doubles the lighting requirements for public walkways under sidewalk sheds [1], addressing long-standing safety concerns. The reforms maintain the crucial safety standards established following a 1979 tragedy involving a Barnard College student [2], while introducing measures to prevent indefinite scaffolding installations. The city council’s unanimous approval of these measures [4] reflects a balanced approach between maintaining public safety and improving urban aesthetics.