Sidewalk Cafe — Excessive or Prohibited Advertising Signage

Signs, pictures, flags, banners, side curtains, and illuminated or non-illuminated devices on sidewalk cafe structures are limited to: restaurant name, logo (max 10% of surface area), menu, and service information. Signs must not be illuminated, flashing, or moving. Menus and hours of operation may not be painted on or affixed to barriers. No advertising for third-party products or services is permitted.

• large advertising banner or flag hung from cafe awning, umbrella, or barrier
• illuminated or flashing sign attached to a sidewalk cafe structure
• moving or animated signage within a sidewalk cafe
• menu or hours-of-operation poster affixed directly to a roadway cafe barrier
• third-party brand advertising (e.g., beer brand, tech company) displayed prominently on cafe structure

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