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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Outdoor Dining / DOT-DIN-002
Dining Out NYC — Regional Corridor 10ft Clear Path
Rule
Outdoor Dining · NYC DOT · 34 RCNY §5-11(a)(1) (eff. Mar 3, 2024); see also Dining Out NYC Program Rules
Dining Out NYC — Regional Corridor 10ft 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 regulation
Sidewalk cafes on Regional Corridors must maintain a minimum clear pedestrian path of 10 feet. All dining furniture, structures, and equipment must remain outside this path.
What to photograph
- tables or chairs reducing walkway below 10 feet on a moderately busy street
- outdoor dining setup encroaching on pedestrian lane
- signage or barriers placed within 10 feet of building line
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 appFAQ
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.
Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?
We prepare the text. You file it on 311. Nothing goes to 311 unless you send it.