Roadway Cafe — Flooring Drainage Channel Missing or Non-Compliant

If flooring is used in a roadway cafe, a 6-inch covered drainage channel must be maintained between the flooring and the curb to allow drainage and water flow along the roadway. Flooring must be durable, lightweight, mold-resistant, easily removable, and elevated from the ground for drainage. Rugs and artificial turf are not permitted as flooring. Flooring must be lifted and cleaned at least once a week.

• roadway cafe flooring installed flush against the curb with no visible drainage gap
• rugs or artificial turf used as flooring material within a roadway dining setup
• flooring that appears permanently fixed to the roadway without drainage provisions
• visibly dirty, mold-stained, or deteriorating flooring in a roadway cafe
• carpet, indoor-style flooring, or non-removable surface covering the roadway cafe area

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