Converse enforces scaffold safety through the 2018 IBC adopted in Chapter 18, plus OSHA 1926 Subpart L for paid workers. Permits required for engineered or right-of-way scaffolds.
Converse adopts the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) under Chapter 18 of the Municipal Code, which governs temporary scaffolding used during construction. Scaffolds over 20 feet or those supporting heavy loads must be engineered per IBC Chapter 33 (Safeguards During Construction). Federal OSHA 1926 Subpart L applies to all paid construction workers and requires guardrails at 10 feet, toeboards, planking rated for four times the intended load, and competent-person inspection before each shift. Sidewalk sheds and pedestrian canopies near public rights-of-way require a separate encroachment permit from Public Works. Homeowners performing their own repairs on single-family homes may erect temporary scaffolds without a building permit if under 20 feet and not blocking the public way. Contact the Converse Building Department at (210) 658-5356 for scaffold permit questions or right-of-way approvals in commercial corridors.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Bexar County handle scaffold & sidewalk shed.
See how Converse's scaffold & sidewalk shed rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.