The Department of Buildings announced the changes this past Thursday as part of an effort to reduce the number and duration of sidewalk sheds citywide. As of Aug. 17, there were 7,427 permitted sidewalk sheds citywide, according to the Mayor's Office — more than 1,000 fewer than at this time last year.
Under the new DOB rules, sidewalk shed permits must now be renewed every 90 days rather than annually. Each renewal must include a report explaining why the shed is still needed and detailing progress on the repairs.
Property owners who leave sheds in place without active work or fail to complete façade repairs within a reasonable period may also face graduated monthly penalties after 180 days. DOB expects to begin imposing these penalties in early 2027.
Meanwhile, DOB has proposed allowing six new shed designs developed by Arup and Practice for Architecture and Urbanism. The city says the designs would provide more light, visibility and sidewalk space while maintaining overhead protection. Because the city owns the designs, building owners can freely copy and use them.
The public comment period on the proposed designs runs through Sept. 24.
DOB is also updating its guidance for large "campus" properties, including NYCHA developments, schools, and medical facilities. Required shed coverage will generally be limited to 40 feet from a building, an effort to eliminate sprawling shed networks that can extend well beyond a building's façade.
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