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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Outdoor Dining / DOT-DIN-006

Dining Out NYC — Tables Must Be Removed by 11pm

Rule

Outdoor Dining · NYC DOT · 34 RCNY §5-08; Dining Out NYC Program Rules §4.2

Dining Out NYC — Tables Must Be Removed by 11pm is enforced by NYC DOT under 34 RCNY §5-08; Dining Out NYC Program Rules §4.2. Severity default: Medium.

The regulation

All sidewalk cafe tables, chairs, and portable structures must be removed from the sidewalk or stored indoors by 11:00 PM nightly. Dining operations must cease by this time.

What to photograph

  • outdoor dining furniture remaining on sidewalk after 11pm (check photo timestamp)
  • tables and chairs left unattended on sidewalk late at night
  • dining setup visible in a nighttime or late evening photo

How to file a complaint

  1. Photograph the obstruction from sidewalk level showing clear path width.
  2. Capture any posted DOT dining license or permit if visible.
  3. File via 311 under Sidewalk Café / Outdoor Dining, or use SidewalkSnitch dining analysis.
  4. 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

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.

Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?

We prepare the text. You file it on 311. Nothing goes to 311 unless you send it.

More Outdoor Dining rules · ← All regulations