Dallas Department of Transportation runs a limited parklet pilot allowing restaurants to convert curbside parking into outdoor dining platforms with engineered barriers, ADA ramps, and revocable license, currently piloted in Deep Ellum, Bishop Arts, and parts of Lower Greenville.
Unlike Los Angeles' citywide Al Fresco program, Dallas parklets remain a pilot run by Dallas DOT in coordination with the Office of Economic Development. Operators submit engineered drawings showing crash-rated bollards or planters separating the platform from traffic, ADA-compliant decking flush with the sidewalk, drainage that does not block the gutter, and reflective markings visible at night. Insurance of $1 million names the city, and the platform is removable within 48 hours if the city needs the parking lane for utility work or special events. Parklets count toward restaurant seating capacity for occupant load and TABC purposes. Annual fees include the foregone parking-meter revenue plus an inspection charge. Most approvals concentrate in Deep Ellum, Bishop Arts, and Lower Greenville.
Operating without a parklet license violates Code Ch. 43, fine up to $500 per day plus removal at operator cost. Failure to maintain crash barriers may also trigger citation under Stormwater Drainage rules.
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See how Dallas's parklets rules stack up against other locations.
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