Sidewalk or Roadway Cafe — Furniture Not Secured When Closed / Umbrellas in Inclement Weather

During hours when a sidewalk cafe or roadway cafe is not operating, the licensee must secure all furnishings and decorative elements (tables, chairs, etc.) using a cable or other locking system. Secured items may not impede or block access to utility infrastructure or assets (utility access covers, vent poles, control cabinets). Umbrellas and overhead coverings must be secured during inclement weather, including high wind conditions or heavy snow events.

• loose, unsecured cafe tables and chairs left out on the sidewalk or in the roadway after operating hours
• stacked but unchained outdoor furniture sitting on the sidewalk overnight
• umbrellas left fully open during visible high wind or storm conditions
• cable or chain pattern that loops around a utility access cover or vent pole
• wind-displaced chairs scattered onto the pedestrian path

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