Chicago, IL Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)

Chicago Municipal Code Chapter 13-34 establishes comprehensive scaffolding regulations. A scaffolding permit is required when scaffolding is located within the Central Business District and exceeds 40 feet above grade, or for any building exceeding 80 feet above grade citywide. Applications are submitted to the Building Commissioner with a complete schedule of prospective scaffolding work for a one-year period, including the building address, time periods, nature of work, type and size of scaffolding, and contractor contact information. The permit fee is $50 and is effective for one year from issuance. Section 13-34-040 requires operators to obtain commercial general liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage, naming the City of Chicago as additional insured on a primary, noncontributory basis. Section 13-34-020 establishes general safety requirements: all scaffolding must be constructed to ensure the safety of workers and pedestrians passing under or near the scaffolding. Guardrails, toeboards, and planking must meet the standards specified in the code. Sidewalk protection (overhead bridging) is required when scaffolding is erected adjacent to pedestrian areas. All scaffolding work must comply with OSHA standards in addition to the city code requirements.