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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Sanitation / DOT-SC-028

Roadway Cafe — Flooring Not Lifted and Cleaned Weekly

Rule

Sanitation · NYC DOT / DSNY · 34 RCNY §5-10(a)(3) (eff. March 3, 2024)

Roadway Cafe — Flooring Not Lifted and Cleaned Weekly is enforced by NYC DOT / DSNY under 34 RCNY §5-10(a)(3) (eff. March 3, 2024). Severity default: Medium.

The regulation

If flooring is utilized as part of a roadway cafe, such flooring shall be lifted for cleaning on a regular basis, but not less than weekly. Flooring that is visibly soiled, never lifted, or accumulating grease, trash, or vermin underneath is a violation.

What to photograph

  • roadway cafe flooring with heavy accumulated grime, food debris, or staining indicating it has not been lifted
  • visible trash, food scraps, or standing water trapped under or alongside flooring panels
  • flooring panels that appear permanently installed or bolted such that they cannot be lifted
  • rodent droppings, gnaw marks, or visible vermin activity at or around the flooring edges

How to file a complaint

  1. Photograph trash, bags, or spill at the curb with building address visible.
  2. Note time of day — set-out time violations require proof of early placement.
  3. File at 311 under Dirty Conditions or Sanitation.
  4. For commercial waste, note business name on signage if visible.

Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DOT / DSNY.

Penalties & fines

DSNY fines range from $50–$500+ for set-out time, containerization, and dirty-area violations. Repeat commercial offenders may face escalated penalties.

What happens after you file

DSNY Sanitation Enforcement inspects and may issue Notices of Violation. Residential issues may be referred to property management; commercial routes get BIC oversight.

SidewalkSnitch supports photo analysis for dining complaints.

Draft a filing in the app

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.

Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?

We prepare the text. You file it on 311. Nothing goes to 311 unless you send it.

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