NYC Truck Side Guard Mandates Faced Exemptions
While NYC mandates truck side guards to protect cyclists, local regulators frequently grant exemptions that leave many heavy vehicles unprotected.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Trucks
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New York City requires side guards on trade waste trucks and city contract vehicles, yet regulators continue to grant exemptions to about half of the 7,100 waste trucks operating in the area. Advocates argue these gaps in safety policy may undermine efforts to address city traffic fatalities.
Why it matters
Side guards act as aluminum barriers that can prevent pedestrians and cyclists from being dragged under rear wheels, with proponents citing potential fatality reductions of up to 40 percent. These safety devices have become a central point of debate as local officials balance industrial equipment needs against public safety goals.
The Business Integrity Commission currently regulates 7,100 waste trucks, yet grants exemptions to roughly 50 percent of them. Kits to install these guards cost approximately $2,400, and current city law mandates the equipment for trucks with more than 13.8 inches of ground clearance.
The players
Dave Caprio
A trucking industry veteran who advocates for mandatory installation of side guards on all large trucks in New York City.
Business Integrity Commission
The New York City agency responsible for regulating the commercial waste industry and overseeing truck safety mandates.
The details
Side guards function as rigid aluminum barriers mounted between a truck’s front and rear wheels, physically blocking individuals from sliding beneath the vehicle. Custom installation is often required to ensure the guards remain clear of existing vehicle hardware like toolboxes, fuel tanks, and ladders. Despite these technical solutions, many owners secure exemptions by claiming that side features make the standard installation impractical.
Timeline
1989: The European Union mandated the installation of truck side guards.
2015: New York City Council mandated side guards for BIC-regulated trucks.
2021: The city expanded side guard requirements to include large city projects.
2025: New York City recorded 205 total traffic fatalities and 20 cyclist deaths.
September 2026: Two fatal crashes occurred in New York City.
The Home Front
New York City's current implementation follows a pattern set by the 1989 European Union truck side guard mandate, which established the safety benefits of these barriers in urban transit. Local enforcement sits in contrast to this standard, as widespread exemptions for waste trucks persist.
Residents should remain aware of their proximity to heavy waste vehicles, particularly at intersections, given that many trucks still lack side guard protection due to active exemptions. Families concerned about traffic safety in their neighborhood can contact their local council office to track the status of city-wide infrastructure and vehicle safety initiatives.
The takeaway
While city policy aims to standardize safety equipment, the high rate of exemptions for waste vehicles means cyclists and pedestrians cannot assume all large trucks are fitted with guards. Always exercise extra caution near commercial vehicles and monitor local policy updates regarding street safety regulations.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest safety and performance requirements for commercial vehicles in our Trucks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Streetsblog New York City.
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