Major Reforms on Sidewalk Sheds

Legislation sponsored by Council Member Keith Powers, directs the DOB to recommend new sidewalk shed designs by September 30, 2025.

Council Member Keith Powers during a press conference on taking down sidewalk sheds. — Photo: William Alatriste/NYC Council Media Unit

In a significant move to reshape New York City’s streetscapes and address long-standing safety concerns, on March 26, 2025 the City Council passed a sweeping package of legislation aimed at reforming sidewalk shed rules. With over 8,400 scaffolding structures currently up across the five boroughs — many overstaying their welcome for years — these new laws promise a more efficient, transparent, and pedestrian-friendly approach.

A Streetscape in Perpetual Shadow

Sidewalk sheds, originally designed as temporary safety measures, have become a near-permanent fixture in the city, particularly in Manhattan. On average, they linger for more than 500 days, with over 300 having been up for more than five years. City leaders say this not only clutters streets and blocks light but also undermines the vibrancy and safety of neighborhoods.

Speaker Adrienne Adams during a press conference on taking down sidewalk sheds. — Photo: William Alatriste/NYC Council Media Unit

“Sidewalk sheds have been a pervasive problem in our city for far too long,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “This Council is proud to advance these reforms to restore our streets, prioritize pedestrian safety, and hold property owners accountable.”

Highlights of the Legislation

The reform package includes five key bills — all designed to improve accountability, reduce shed lifespans, and bring better aesthetics and safety standards to NYC’s sidewalks.

Introduction 391-A, sponsored by Council Member Keith Powers, directs the Department of Buildings (DOB) to recommend new sidewalk shed designs by September 30, 2025. It also expands color options, mandates matching construction fences, boosts lighting requirements, and raises the minimum shed height to 12 feet. Importantly, it requires DOB to educate the public on containment netting as an alternative to traditional sheds.

Introduction 393-A shortens the default permit duration for façade-related sidewalk sheds from one year to just three months, with exceptions for larger projects like demolition or new construction. Renewals must include proof of work completed or valid delay documentation. Penalties for excessive delays escalate based on the shed’s age and size.

Introduction 394-A mandates a DOB review of the Façade Inspection and Safety Program (FISP), with recommendations due by year’s end. It proposes extending the inspection cycle from 5 to up to 12 years, and delaying the first inspection for new buildings from 5 to 9 years.

Council Member Powers emphasized, “This package fundamentally changes our approach to sidewalk sheds while keeping safety our top priority.”

Introduction 660-A, introduced by Council Member Erik Bottcher, doubles required lighting levels under sidewalk sheds and mandates energy-efficient LED fixtures. It also ensures lighting near windows or doors is shielded or adjustable to prevent excessive brightness in homes.

Introduction 661-A further strengthens enforcement around façade repairs. It creates penalties for failing to submit construction documents or permits in a timely manner, and for delays in completing repairs. Property owners may request extensions, which DOB will grant based on building size, repair complexity, and material availability.

“Ask any New Yorker and they’ll tell you — sidewalk sheds are the guest that never leaves,” said Bottcher. “With this legislation, we’re restoring beauty and common sense to our sidewalks.”🀰

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