Sidewalk Cafe — Fully Enclosed Structure (Prohibited)

A sidewalk cafe may not be fully enclosed. Enclosures consisting predominantly of glass, slow-burning plastic, or lightweight metal walls and a roof are prohibited unless the cafe was legally constructed and operating as an enclosed sidewalk cafe prior to March 16, 2020 (grandfathered). All new sidewalk cafes must be open-air.

• sidewalk dining area enclosed on multiple sides with glass, plastic, or metal panels reaching the roof
• fully glassed-in or walled outdoor dining structure on a sidewalk with ceiling or roof covering
• enclosed sidewalk dining room with sliding glass doors forming a complete enclosure
• greenhouse-style or conservatory-style enclosed structure used as outdoor dining on 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 / NYC DOB.

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