Construction scaffolding overhanging Baltimore sidewalks or streets requires a public right-of-way permit from DOT. Pedestrian protection canopies are mandatory above six feet of work height. Maryland Occupational Safety and Health enforces worker-side standards.
Baltimore DOT issues Minor Privilege permits for scaffolds, sidewalk sheds, and overhead protection within the public right-of-way. Permits require certificates of insurance, traffic-control plans, and pedestrian canopy specifications meeting Building Code Article 5. Overhead protection is required when work exceeds six feet above sidewalk level. MOSH regulates worker fall protection and platform construction under federal-approved state plan rules. Permits expire after 90 days and must be renewed for ongoing projects.
Unpermitted scaffolds: $500 to $2,500 fine plus daily accruals. Stop-work orders common. Worker injuries trigger MOSH investigations and OSHA penalties up to $15,000 per violation.
See how Baltimore's scaffold & sidewalk shed rules stack up against other locations.
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