NYC Expands Color Options for Sidewalk Sheds and Construction Fences

The NYC Department of Buildings has introduced expanded color options for sidewalk sheds and solid construction or demolition fences under Local Law 47 of 2025 (LL47), effective August 15, 2025. Previously, these protective structures were required to be hunter green, with limited allowances for white.

PHOTO: SPRING SCAFFOLDING

Local Law 47 now authorizes three standard colors—hunter green, metallic gray, and white—for all sidewalk sheds and fences. For existing buildings (not undergoing full demolition or major alteration), additional color choices are permitted to match the building’s façade, trim, cornice, or visible roof, helping these temporary structures better integrate into their surroundings.

All publicly visible elements must be finished in one uniform color, although metallic components may remain metallic gray, and parapet mesh may be black. However, black may only be used as a primary color if it matches a building element.

Projects filed before August 15, 2025, remain compliant under previous rules, but property owners may repaint or refinish existing sheds and fences to align with the new options.

Artwork and signage installed in compliance with DOB codes are exempt from the color requirements.

In addition to hunter green, metallic gray, and white, sidewalk shed colors can match the color of the building’s façade, trim, cornice, or visible roof.🀰