Sidewalk Cafe — Removable Furniture & 50% Sidewalk Width Rule

All tables, chairs, barriers, and equipment of an open-air sidewalk cafe must be removable and self-supporting; nothing may be bolted, anchored, or otherwise permanently affixed to the sidewalk surface. The required clear pedestrian path is the GREATER of (a) the corridor minimum (Global 12 ft / Regional 10 ft / Neighborhood, Community Connector, or Baseline 8 ft) OR (b) 50% of the total sidewalk width including any sidewalk widening. Cafe footprint plus perimeter demarcation may occupy at most the balance.

• tables, planters, or umbrella bases bolted into the sidewalk
• permanent decking, anchored fencing, or concrete-set fixtures within the cafe footprint
• cafe footprint occupying more than half the visible sidewalk width
• perimeter rail welded or affixed to a fixed sidewalk 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