San Diego, CA Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)

San Diego's scaffold requirements are governed by Cal/OSHA Title 8 (California Code of Regulations), Sections 1635-1672, which provide comprehensive scaffold safety standards more stringent than federal OSHA in several areas. All scaffolds must be erected under the supervision of a competent person. Fall protection is required at heights of 7.5 feet or more (stricter than the federal 10-foot threshold). Guardrails must be 42 inches high with a midrail. Scaffolds on public sidewalks or rights-of-way in San Diego require an encroachment permit from the Development Services Department. The permit requires a traffic control plan, pedestrian protection (overhead covered walkway), and minimum 4-foot clear pedestrian path. San Diego Municipal Code Section 129.0702 requires that construction projects maintain safe pedestrian access throughout the duration of work. All scaffold erectors must hold a Cal/OSHA scaffold erector certification. The city may require engineering calculations for scaffolds exceeding certain heights or in seismically sensitive areas.