Sidewalk shed design loads

The default in New York City is heavy duty. All sidewalk sheds must be designed to carry a live load of at least 300 pounds per square foot. A lighter 150 pound per square foot design is permitted only in a narrow set of circumstances.

Heavy duty is the default

Every sidewalk shed is designed as heavy duty at a minimum of 300 pounds per square foot unless it qualifies for the light duty exception. This reflects what actually lands on shed decks during facade work.

When light duty is allowed

Where the shed protects from work performed at a height of less than 100 feet above the ground, it may be designed as light duty at a minimum of 150 pounds per square foot, provided that nothing is stored or placed on the shed.

The storage restriction is not advisory. Once material goes on the deck, a light duty shed is being used outside its design. Where storage is intended, the design load has to account for the stored item over and above the base live load.

Translucent decking

Sheds may use light-transmitting decking, which brightens the sidewalk underneath considerably. Where translucent decking is used, no storage is permitted on the shed, and bracing arrangements differ.

Key facts

Heavy duty

At least 300 psf

Light duty

At least 150 psf

Light duty condition

Work below 100 feet, no storage

Translucent decking

No storage permitted