Pittsburgh, PA Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)

Any scaffolding or sidewalk shed placed within the public right-of-way in Pittsburgh requires a Construction Staging Permit from the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI). Applicants must provide proof of general liability insurance meeting the amounts in the DOMI ROW Fee Schedule, and a Maintenance and Protection of Traffic (MPT) plan may be required depending on the scope of work. A compliance inspection is conducted after the scaffold is erected to verify all permit conditions are met and work conforms to approved plans. Scaffolding must maintain minimum pedestrian clearance on sidewalks and must be illuminated at night with warning lights. All scaffolds must comply with OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L standards for fall protection, load capacity, and structural integrity. The PA Uniform Construction Code also applies through Pittsburgh Code Title 10. Permits have specific durations; extensions must be requested before expiration or the scaffold must be removed. Failure to obtain a permit or comply with conditions can result in stop-work orders, fines, and required removal at the owners expense.