In response to the growing presence of long-standing sidewalk sheds across New York City, the City launched the “Get Sheds Down” initiative in July 2023. Building on that momentum, the City Council passed a series of new local laws in 2025 that overhaul sidewalk shed regulations and revise elements of the Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP). These legislative changes aim to expedite facade repairs, improve sidewalk shed design and safety, and potentially extend the timeline between mandated facade inspections.
Local Law 47/2025 – Sidewalk Shed Design & Appearance Overhaul
This law mandates a formal DOB study and report due by September 30, 2025 to explore alternative sidewalk shed designs.
Chapter 33 of the NYC Building Code has the following proposed changes:
- Containment netting may now be considered as an alternative to traditional sheds
- Decking limitations include exceptions for certain configurations
- Shed height may now extend to 12 feet, unless it blocks required light, air, or egress
- Lighting upgrades are required near subway entrances, bus shelters, or other transit access points
- The shed color palette has been expanded to include metallic gray and white, or a solid color that matches the building’s façade, trim, or roof
- Construction fences may also use these colors—but must match the shed
- These changes aim to improve safety, visibility, and neighborhood aesthetics.
Local Law 48/2025 – Shorter Permits and Higher Shed Penalties
Previously issued for up to a year, sidewalk shed permits are now limited to 90 days, and cannot be renewed until all DOB penalties are paid.
For sheds that linger:
- <3 years old: $10 per linear foot
- 3–4 years: $100 per linear foot
- >4 years: $200 per linear foot, up to $6,000/month
Renewals must now be accompanied by a written report from a Registered Design Professional outlining recent work and explaining any delays. This mirrors the DOB’s 90-day extension requirements for buildings with Unsafe FISP classifications.
Local Law 49/2025 – FISP Cycle Reform Under Review
DOB is tasked with issuing a report to City Council by December 31, 2025 to evaluate:
- Replacing the current 5-year FISP cycle with a longer 6-to-12-year cycle
- Allowing new buildings to file their first FISP report 8 years after completion instead of 5
While no changes are official yet, this law signals a possible shift in FISP frequency and filing timelines for newer buildings.
Local Law 50/2025 – Stronger Shed Lighting Standards
To improve pedestrian safety and visibility:
- Lighting must now deliver 90 lumens per watt, up from 45
- LED-type lights are mandatory
- Light trespass protections are required - fixtures must be adjusted or shielded to prevent glare within a 20-foot radius of windows or glass doors
Local Law 51/2025 – Stricter Enforcement for FISP Timelines
Upon the initial filing for a sidewalk shed permit, whether for inspection or repair, the following enforcement deadlines now apply:
- Construction documents must be filed within 5 months
- DOB permit applications must be filed within 8 months
- Repair program must be completed within 2 years
Failure to meet any of these triggers a violation of $5,000–$20,000.
Extensions may be granted if submitted in advance and approved. Large projects can request a single timeline extension based on the building’s size, scope, and materials. DOB is still developing rules for how these extensions and penalties will be handled.
What This Means for Building Owners
The message from the City is clear: prolonged sidewalk sheds and slow-moving repairs are no longer acceptable. The new local laws raise the stakes for both FISP compliance and shed management, adding new financial, aesthetic, and reporting pressures.
If your building is entering the 10th Cycle or facing long-standing FISP issues, now is the time to revisit your repair timeline, permitting strategy, and coordination with design professionals.
Need guidance navigating the new local laws or planning your next FISP cycle?
Our team of licensed architects, engineers, and Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors (QEWIs) is here to help. From developing repair strategies to managing permits and access agreements, we work with boards and property managers to keep buildings safe, compliant, and on track.
Reach out to learn how we can support your facade program or help assess the impact of these latest regulatory changes: 212-675-8844 or info@nullrandpc.com.
If you haven’t yet reviewed the key requirements and penalties now in effect for Cycle 10, our article FISP 10th Cycle is Underway: Key Updates for 2025 covers everything you need to know about current filing requirements, fees, and deadlines.
Luke Pantaleo, RA, NCARB is a Partner and Team Leader of RAND's Facade & Roofing Team.
