Haverhill, MA Special Events & Permits: Parklets (2026)

City Code § 222-85 limits parklets to food, dining or other commercial establishments on a public way inside the Central Business District, or within 150 feet of the CBD border, that do not already have a City-built bump-out. Under § 222-86A, the establishment must apply annually to the License Commission; the application is circulated to the Board of Health, Building Inspector, Superintendent of Highways, Engineering Department, Planning Department, Police Department and Mayor, each given 20 days to respond, with constructive approval inferred if no response arrives in that window.

Section 222-86B sets a nonrefundable $100 application fee plus a $250 license fee once the Commission grants the permit, and requires a certificate of insurance and a sidewalk bond naming the City as additional insured, in an amount set by the City Solicitor. Section 222-88 restricts the season to April 1 through October 15 of each calendar year, and hours mirror state law and municipal licensing provisions unless the Commission further restricts them. Section 222-90 requires applicants to notify adjacent property owners and other retail businesses within 100 feet of the application, and tenants need the property owner's written approval.

Installation and removal must be supervised by the Department of Public Works under § 222-91, with the permit holder responsible for any damage to the street, curbing or sidewalk. Parklets cannot block fire hydrants, fire department connections, manholes, catch basins or utility access points under § 222-92, and § 222-93 caps their width at six feet or one parking lane, covering up to two spaces, with mandatory solid end barriers, flush sidewalk transitions and integrated seating.