Roadway Cafe — Opaque Vertical Screening

Vertical screening on a roadway cafe is only permitted on the roadway-facing side between the barrier and 6 feet above the base, and must maintain clear visibility. Only clear plexiglass, lattice panels, or plantings are allowed. Opaque screening is prohibited. Vertical screening may not be affixed to the outward-facing side of a barrier.

• solid, opaque panels or walls used as screening on the traffic-facing side of a roadway cafe
• solid fabric, wood, or metal sheeting blocking the view into or out of a roadway cafe
• vertical screening affixed to or leaning against the outward-facing roadway side of barriers
• enclosed-looking roadway dining structure with no clear visibility from the street

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.

DOT may issue notices of violation to licensed cafés; unlicensed setups can face removal orders and fines. Repeat violations can affect license renewal.

DOT Sidewalk Café Inspection responds to encroachment complaints. Licensed sites are measured against permit bounds; unlicensed structures may be tagged for removal.

• Outdoor dining violations