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

Article IX of the Cicero Code of Ordinances (Sec. 22-575 through 22-581) governs all scaffolding erected on a building within town limits. Before any scaffolding work begins, the building owner must obtain a scaffolding permit from the Building Department, valid for one year and covering a full schedule of the owner's planned work; a new amended permit is required for any work not listed on the original application. 00 for contractors and free for homeowners. 8-2001 and ASME A120 safety standards, and the Building Commissioner or Deputy Building Commissioner can require noncombustible materials where fire risk is elevated.

No permit is valid until the operator complies with Sec. 22-578, which requires proof of a completed scaffolding safety training course for every person who erects, maintains or uses the scaffold, a minimum $1,000,000 liability policy naming the Town of Cicero as an additional insured, and a surety bond in an amount the Building Commissioner sets, running to the Town as obligee. Copies of the permit, training proof and insurance must be kept at the scaffold site and produced on request of Town personnel. The Building Commissioner may approve emergency erection without a permit, but the operator must still apply within two business days.

Scaffolding left unoccupied more than two hours must be securely attached to the building, and it must be lowered or secured when wind conditions reach the hazard level in the manufacturer's specifications. Scaffolds and ladders placed on any public street, alley or place must be anchored to prevent harm, and no tools may be left where they could fall more than four feet into a public way.