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Regulations / 311 / Outdoor Dining

Report Outdoor Dining in NYC

Outdoor Dining · NYC DOT · 311 service type

How to report "Outdoor Dining" in New York City via 311, what agency handles it, and what evidence helps.

How to file

  1. Open portal.311.nyc.gov and search for "Outdoor Dining".
  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.

Penalties & enforcement

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.

Evidence tips

  • Include address or intersection and date/time in your description.
  • Wide shot for context, close-up for the specific condition.
  • Repeat filings at the same address build enforcement history in 311.

SidewalkSnitch supports related complaints in Outdoor Dining.

Open the app

Related guides

FAQ

Can I file anonymously?

311 requires contact information for follow-up. Your identity is not shared with the property owner or business you report.

Does SidewalkSnitch file this to 311 for me?

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

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