Scranton, PA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permitting agency
- Bureau of Code Enforcement
- Permit fee
- $25
- Added
- 7-5-2023, Ord. No. 72-2023
- Must comply with
- ADA, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
- City can order removal
- For traffic, safety, emergency
Summary
Operating a sidewalk cafe or parklet on a Scranton sidewalk or right-of-way requires a permit from the Bureau of Code Enforcement under City Code § 412-59, with a $25 application fee. Permits require ADA-compliant clearance, litter-free operation and current city taxes, and can be revoked for noncompliance.
PARKLET A platform, similar level surface, or other encroachment on or extending into the City right-of-way (such as a sidewalk or parking space), designated as public space, with amenities such as but not limited to tables, chairs, benches, plants, bike parking, umbrellas, canopies, and related appurtenances. ... Permit required. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a sidewalk cafe or parklet without a permit from the Bureau of Code Enforcement.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4719898; v25 updated 2025-12-16; through 12-16-2025).
Full Breakdown
§ 412-59A makes it unlawful to operate either a sidewalk cafe or a parklet without a permit from the Bureau of Code Enforcement. § 412-60 sets the permit fee at $25 for either a sidewalk cafe or a parklet application. Under § 412-59C, the Bureau of Code Enforcement can revoke, suspend or refuse to issue a permit for noncompliance, and § 412-62 separately reserves the city's right to order any furniture or encroachment removed from the right-of-way for a traffic problem, utility work, disorder, public safety issue, emergency, or other reasonable basis, regardless of permit status.
Violations & Fines
Operating a sidewalk cafe or parklet without the permit required by § 412-59A, or violating the article's conditions, exposes the operator to permit revocation, suspension or denial under § 412-59C. Chapter 412's cafe and parklet article sets no separate fine, so a straight violation falls to the Code's general penalty in § 1-16: up to $300 per offense plus costs, and up to 90 days' imprisonment if unpaid.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a parklet under Scranton's code?
How much does the permit cost?
Can the city make me remove my sidewalk cafe furniture?
Does a sidewalk cafe need a dedicated employee on site?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Scranton
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