Auburn, WA Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)
Key Facts
- Code
- RCW 19.27 + WAC 296-874
- Permit Trigger
- Over 10 feet or attached
- Right-of-Way
- Separate ROW permit required
- Guardrails
- 42 inches with midrail and toeboard
- Power Line Clearance
- 10 feet minimum
Summary
Scaffolding at Auburn construction sites follows Washington State Building Code (RCW 19.27) and WISHA safety rules, with permits required for scaffolds over 10 feet and right-of-way encroachments needing city approval.
Chapter 296-874 WAC SCAFFOLDS Show dispositions Last update: 6/2/20 HTML versions have links PDF versions have authentication Complete chapter HTML PDF Including dispositions WAC Sections HTML PDF 296-874-099
Definitions. HTML PDF 296-874-100 Scope. HTML PDF 296-874-200 General requirements for scaffolds. HTML PDF 296-874-20002 Make sure scaffolds are properly designed and constructed. HTML PDF 296-874-20004 Make sure scaffolds are erected, moved, altered, or dismantled by qualified persons. HTML PDF 296-874-20006 Maintain structural integrity when intermixing scaffold components. HTML PDF 296-874-20008 Make sure platforms are properly planked or decked. HTML PDF 296-874-20010 Make sure platforms meet minimum width requirements. HTML PDF 296-874-20012 Meet these requirements when using shorter platforms to create a longer platform. HTML PDF 296-874-20014 Lay platform planks properly when the platform changes direction. HTML PDF 296-874-20016 Stabilize the ends of platforms. HTML PDF 296-874-20018 Keep platform sag within acceptable limits. HTML PDF 296-874-20020 Provide safe access to scaffolds. HTML PDF 296-874-20022 Make sure portable, hook-on, and attachable ladders meet these requirements. HTML PDF 296-874-20024 Make sure stairway-type ladders meet these requirements. HTML PDF 296-874-20026 Make sure stair towers meet these requirements. HTML PDF 296-874-20028 Make sure stair rails and handrails meet these requirements. HTML PDF 296-874-20030 Make sure ramps and walkways used to access scaffolds meet these requirements. HTML PDF 296-874-20032 Make sure surfaces used to access scaffolds are close enough to use safely. HTML PDF 296-874-20034 Inspect scaffolds and scaffold components. HTML PDF 296-874-20036 Make sure damaged or weakened scaffolds meet minimum strength requirements. HTML PDF 296-874-20038 Make sure scaffolds are properly loaded. HTML PDF 296-874-20040 Protect employees when moving scaffolds. HTML PDF 296-874-20042 Increase employee working level height on scaffolds safely. HTML PDF 296-874-20044 Control loads being hoisted near scaffolds. HTML PDF 296-874-20046 Protect employees from energized power lines. HTML PDF 296-874-20048 Protect employees from weather hazards. HTML PDF 296-874-20050 Protect employees from slipping and tripping hazards. HTML PDF 296-874-20052 Provide fall protection for employees on scaffolds. HTML PDF 296-874-20066 Provide falling object protection. HTML PDF 296-874-20068 Provide additional support lines on suspended scaffolds using a canopy for falling object protection. HTML PDF 296-874-20070 Make sure toeboards meet these requirements. HTML PDF 296-874-20072 Train employees who work on a scaffold. HTML PDF 296-874-20074 Train employees who erect, dismantle, operate or maintain scaffolds. HTML PDF 296-874-20076 Retrain employees when necessary. HTML PDF
Full Breakdown
27 and the International Building Code, together with workplace safety rules enforced by the Washington Department of Labor and Industries under WAC 296-874. Building permits are required for any scaffold erected as part of a project over 10 feet in height or attached to a structure, and the permit drawings must include load calculations, tie-in points, and guardrails at the working deck. Scaffolds placed in the public right-of-way, including sidewalks along Main Street, Auburn Way, and A Street SE, need a separate right-of-way use permit from Auburn Public Works with pedestrian canopy protection, signage, and ADA-accessible detour paths.
All scaffolds must include toeboards, midrails, and 42-inch top rails; planking must be fully covered and secured; and a competent person must inspect the scaffold daily before each shift. Electrical clearance of at least 10 feet from energized overhead lines is mandatory under WAC 296-874-20056. 25 code enforcement. Contact Auburn Community Development at (253) 931-3000 to confirm permit thresholds for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a residential painting scaffold?
Can I block the sidewalk with scaffolding on Main Street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Auburn
Compare Auburn to another location·View the Washington building safety overview
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