Sidewalk Cafe — Clear Path by Corridor (34 RCNY §5-11)

A clear path shall remain on the sidewalk in front of a sidewalk cafe at all times. Required minimum widths by corridor category: Global Corridors = 12 feet; Regional Corridors = 10 feet; Neighborhood Corridors, Community Connectors, and Baseline Streets = 8 feet. In all cases the clear path must also be at least 50% of the total sidewalk width. The clear path is measured from the outer edge of the cafe perimeter to the nearest curb-side element or curb line.

• sidewalk cafe tables and chairs reducing the visible pedestrian walkway
• outdoor dining furniture extending across more than half the sidewalk width
• pedestrians forced to walk around cafe furniture into the curb area
• perimeter barrier, planter or stanchion positioned too close to curb
• clear path visibly narrower than the width expected for a major commercial 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