St. Louis requires scaffolding used on building construction to meet OSHA standards and ICC building code provisions. Sidewalk protection and right-of-way permits needed when scaffolding extends into public space downtown or in dense neighborhoods.
St. Louis has adopted the International Building Code (IBC) via Revised Code of the City of St. Louis Title V, which incorporates scaffolding safety requirements. The Building Division enforces compliance during construction inspections. When scaffolding projects into the public right-of-way (sidewalks, parking lanes), contractors must obtain a right-of-way occupancy permit from the Street Department and install pedestrian protection consistent with IBC Chapter 33 (Safeguards During Construction). Overhead protection is required when work occurs above public pedestrian areas. OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L standards apply to worker safety on all scaffolds regardless of local permit status. Inspections typically occur at erection and after modifications.
Stop-work orders issued for non-compliant scaffolding. Fines start at $100 and escalate with repeat violations. Unsafe scaffolding in right-of-way may be removed at contractor expense.
See how St. Louis's scaffold & sidewalk shed rules stack up against other locations.
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