Sidewalk Cafe — Clearance from Subway Stair Entrance (15 ft)

A sidewalk cafe must maintain a minimum distance of 15 feet from the open entry side of a subway stairway. A minimum of 10 feet is required from a subway elevator entrance. A minimum of 5 feet is required from the closed (non-entry) end of a subway stair.

• outdoor dining tables or chairs immediately adjacent to or in front of a subway stair entrance
• cafe perimeter barrier blocking or narrowing the approach to subway stairs
• furniture placed within approximately 15 feet of a visible MTA subway entrance
• diners seated directly beside a subway entrance stairwell

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