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SidewalkSnitch / Regulations / Outdoor Dining / DOT-DIN-001
Dining Out NYC — Global Corridor 12ft Clear Path
Outdoor Dining · NYC DOT · 34 RCNY §5-11(a)(1) (eff. Mar 3, 2024); see also Dining Out NYC Program Rules
Dining Out NYC — Global Corridor 12ft Clear Path is enforced by NYC DOT under 34 RCNY §5-11(a)(1) (eff. Mar 3, 2024); see also Dining Out NYC Program Rules. Severity default: High.
The rule
Sidewalk cafes on Global Corridors must maintain a minimum clear pedestrian path of 12 feet, or 50% of total sidewalk width, whichever is greater. Tables, chairs, barriers, heaters, and any dining equipment must not encroach on this path.
What to photograph
- tables or chairs reducing visible walkway below 12 feet
- outdoor dining furniture blocking pedestrian flow on a wide commercial sidewalk
- barriers or planters narrowing clear path on a major corridor
- customers seated within the pedestrian right-of-way
How to file a complaint
- Photograph the obstruction from sidewalk level showing clear path width.
- Capture any posted DOT dining license or permit if visible.
- File via 311 under Sidewalk Café / Outdoor Dining, or use SidewalkSnitch dining analysis.
- Describe how pedestrians are forced into the street or bike lane.
Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DOT.
Penalties & fines
DOT may issue notices of violation to licensed cafés; unlicensed setups can face removal orders and fines. Repeat violations can affect license renewal.
What happens after you file
DOT Sidewalk Café Inspection responds to encroachment complaints. Licensed sites are measured against permit bounds; unlicensed structures may be tagged for removal.
SidewalkSnitch supports photo analysis for dining complaints. Draft a filing in the app →
Related guides
FAQ
Can I file anonymously?
311 requires contact information for follow-up. Your identity is not shared with the violator. SidewalkSnitch requires phone verification for filings but does not auto-submit to 311.
Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?
SidewalkSnitch can analyze photos for dining violations and prepare a ready-to-file draft. Direct 311 submission is not live yet — you file at 311.nyc.gov for a Service Request Number.