Redmond, WA Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)

Scaffolding in Redmond is governed by the International Building Code Chapter 33 as adopted under RCW 19.27 and by Washington Department of Labor and Industries rules in WAC 296-874. Homeowner scaffolds under 10 feet used for personal residential repairs generally do not require a separate building permit, but commercial scaffolds over 10 feet, suspended or swinging-stage scaffolds, and any scaffold encroaching on a sidewalk or street require permits from Redmond Development Services and compliance with L and I safety standards. A competent-person inspection is required at the start of every work shift, and fall protection is mandatory above 10 feet. Projects along Redmond Way, Cleveland Street, 148th Avenue NE, or near the Redmond Technology Station light-rail construction zone need a right-of-way use permit and covered pedestrian walkway if the scaffold exceeds 8 feet. Contact the Redmond Permit Center at 425-556-2431 before any public-property encroachment.