Jacksonville, FL Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)

Jacksonville's scaffold requirements are governed by the Florida Building Code (8th Edition, 2023) and federal OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L standards. Florida does not have a state OSHA plan; federal OSHA directly enforces workplace safety standards in Florida. All scaffolds must be erected under the supervision of a competent person. Fall protection is required at heights of 10 feet or more. Guardrail systems must be 42 inches high with a midrail and toeboard. Scaffolds erected on or over public sidewalks, streets, or rights-of-way require a permit from the Planning and Development Department, Building Inspection Division. The permit requires a site plan showing scaffold placement, pedestrian protection, and traffic control if applicable. A minimum accessible pedestrian path must be maintained under scaffolds extending over sidewalks. Scaffold dismantling must occur promptly after project completion. During hurricane season (June 1 - November 30), the Building Official may require additional scaffold tie-down measures or temporary removal of scaffolding when tropical storms or hurricanes are forecast.