Palo Alto Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed Rules (2026)

Scaffolding erected on sidewalks, streets, or other public right-of-way areas in Palo Alto requires an encroachment permit from the Public Works Department under Municipal Code Title 12. Cal/OSHA Title 8 Section 1637 governs scaffold construction, load ratings, guardrails, and worker fall protection on all private construction sites regardless of permit jurisdiction. Pedestrian protection is required when scaffolding is adjacent to walkways, including covered walkways, debris netting, and lighted barricades per Cal Building Code Chapter 33. Scaffolding exceeding six feet in height must comply with fall protection requirements, and any scaffold within ten feet of energized power lines requires PG&E coordination. Encroachment permits require liability insurance naming the city as additional insured. Scaffolding left in the right-of-way longer than authorized may be removed at owner expense.