NYC rules · Ask Grok
SidewalkSnitch / Regulations / Outdoor Dining / DOT-SC-021
Sidewalk or Roadway Cafe — Smoking or E-Cigarettes Prohibited
Outdoor Dining · NYC DOT / NYC DOHMH · 34 RCNY §5-10(d); NYC Admin Code §17-503(c) (eff. March 3, 2024)
Sidewalk or Roadway Cafe — Smoking or E-Cigarettes Prohibited is enforced by NYC DOT / NYC DOHMH under 34 RCNY §5-10(d); NYC Admin Code §17-503(c) (eff. March 3, 2024). Severity default: Low.
The rule
Smoking or using electronic cigarettes is prohibited within sidewalk cafes and roadway cafes pursuant to subdivision (c) of section 17-503 of the Administrative Code. The licensee is responsible for preventing smoking within the cafe perimeter.
What to photograph
- patron smoking a cigarette, cigar, or pipe at a table within the cafe perimeter
- patron vaping or using an e-cigarette within the outdoor dining area
- visible smoke or vapor cloud near seated diners inside the cafe footprint
- ashtrays on cafe tables
How to file a complaint
- Photograph the obstruction from sidewalk level showing clear path width.
- Capture any posted DOT dining license or permit if visible.
- File via 311 under Sidewalk Café / Outdoor Dining, or use SidewalkSnitch dining analysis.
- Describe how pedestrians are forced into the street or bike lane.
Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DOT / NYC DOHMH.
Penalties & fines
DOT may issue notices of violation to licensed cafés; unlicensed setups can face removal orders and fines. Repeat violations can affect license renewal.
What happens after you file
DOT Sidewalk Café Inspection responds to encroachment complaints. Licensed sites are measured against permit bounds; unlicensed structures may be tagged for removal.
SidewalkSnitch supports photo analysis for dining complaints. Draft a filing in the app →
Related guides
FAQ
Can I file anonymously?
311 requires contact information for follow-up. Your identity is not shared with the violator. SidewalkSnitch requires phone verification for filings but does not auto-submit to 311.
Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?
SidewalkSnitch can analyze photos for dining violations and prepare a ready-to-file draft. Direct 311 submission is not live yet — you file at 311.nyc.gov for a Service Request Number.