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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Outdoor Dining / DOT-DIN-005
Dining Out NYC — No Blocking Fire Hydrant (15ft)
Regulation
Outdoor Dining · NYC DOT / FDNY · 34 RCNY §5-11; NYC Fire Code §503.2 (general 15 ft hydrant clearance)
Dining Out NYC — No Blocking Fire Hydrant (15ft) is enforced by NYC DOT / FDNY under 34 RCNY §5-11; NYC Fire Code §503.2 (general 15 ft hydrant clearance). Severity default: High.
The regulation
No person shall place any object, furniture, or structure within 15 feet of a fire hydrant. Sidewalk cafe furniture must maintain this clearance at all times.
What to photograph
- tables, chairs, or barriers placed adjacent to or in front of a fire hydrant
- outdoor dining setup within visible distance of a red fire hydrant
- heaters, planters, or fencing obstructing hydrant access
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 / FDNY.
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.