Bloomfield, NJ Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)

Section 423-7(H) of the Bloomfield Township Code sets the time limit on temporary scaffolds. The code bars any temporary scaffold or other temporary equipment used for construction, repair, painting or maintenance from staying in place after completion of work beyond a period of one month after the erection or placement, unless the Director of the Community Development Department gives permission.

The provision is in Article I of Chapter 423, which governs commercial, business, industrial and nonresidential properties. Section 423-5 applies the article to every lot and building in Bloomfield Township that is not exclusively residential by use, intended use or design. In a building with mixed occupancy, the residential and nonresidential uses answer to both this article and the Township's other ordinances and codes. Where the article conflicts with a zoning, building, fire, safety or health code, the provision with the higher standard for health and safety prevails.

Scaffolds fall under the exterior maintenance section, § 423-7, which requires the exterior of the premises and all structures to be kept free of litter, nuisances and hazards to the safety of tenants, occupants, pedestrians and other people with access. The same section requires exterior surfaces to be kept painted or protected and storefronts kept in good repair, which is the work that puts scaffolding up.

Enforcement belongs to the Director of the Community Development Department (§ 423-12), who can authorize department members to inspect, serve notices and take action. Premises are subject to inspection from time to time, with entry at reasonable times (§ 423-13). When violations are reported, the enforcing officer prepares a written notice listing them and orders them eliminated within no less than seven days and no more than 30 days (§ 423-14). The notice is delivered personally, left with a person in charge, or posted on the entrance door and mailed. Where conditions are an immediate and substantial threat to safety, § 423-15 allows an order to vacate the premises. A project that needs scaffolding beyond the month runs through the Director's office.