Sidewalk Cafe — Clearance from Bus Stop (8 ft minimum)

A sidewalk cafe must maintain a minimum distance of 8 feet from bus stop poles and bus stop shelters. No element of the cafe may encroach within 8 feet of these objects.

• cafe furniture or perimeter next to a bus stop sign pole
• outdoor dining setup positioned adjacent to an MTA bus stop shelter
• tables or chairs extending toward a visible bus stop sign on the sidewalk

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