Evanston, IL Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- Buildings over 4 stories near street
- Scaffold width
- At least 6 feet
- Covering
- Two layers of 2-inch plank
- Enclosure extension
- Up to 5 feet over lot line
- Approval
- Public Works Director approves design
Summary
Evanston requires a watertight scaffold or temporary roof over the sidewalk whenever construction rises above four stories near the street line, with design specs the Public Works Director must approve.
When additional stories are added to an existing building and such building is located near the street line, there shall be built over the sidewalk at the point where the new stories commence, a scaffold not less than six feet (6') wide, which shall form a covering over the sidewalk composed of a framework of stringers and supports, covered with two (2) layers of two inch (2") plank and a watertight roof so as to prevent dripping.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 21).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 7-2-5-9 sets exact specs for sidewalk scaffolding during construction: buildings over four stories near the street line need a roof framed with 3-by-12-inch timbers spaced no more than four feet apart, covered by two layers of two-inch plank, built watertight to stop dripping. When new stories are added to an existing building, the covering scaffold must be at least six feet wide with the same double-plank, watertight roof. Temporary building-front enclosures may extend five feet over the lot line, and elevated temporary sidewalks for material delivery may rise no more than four feet above curb level, with railings and steps required. The Public Works Director must approve the framework's construction and design.
Violations & Fines
Building without Director of Public Works approval of the scaffold's framework and covering violates Section 7-2-5-9(A); the sidewalk right-of-way permit can be revoked under § 7-2-5-6.
Frequently Asked Questions
How wide must a sidewalk scaffold be in Evanston?
Do I need City approval for a sidewalk shed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Evanston
Compare Evanston to another location·View the Illinois building safety overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cook County handle scaffold & sidewalk shed.