Denver restaurants need a sidewalk cafe permit to place tables and chairs in the public right-of-way. Downtown Denver Business Improvement District coordinates permits within the BID area. Cafes must maintain ADA-compliant pedestrian clearance. Street occupancy permits are required from DOTI for use of sidewalk or curbspace.
Denver restaurants seeking to operate sidewalk cafes must obtain permits from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) for occupying the public right-of-way. Within the Downtown Denver Business Improvement District, the Downtown Denver Partnership coordinates sidewalk cafe permits. A Street Occupancy Permit is required when cafe activities occupy public sidewalks or curbspace. Cafes must maintain ADA-compliant pedestrian clearance on sidewalks, typically a minimum of 5 feet of clear walking space. All outdoor dining furniture, planters, and barriers must be removable and cannot be permanently affixed to the sidewalk. Restaurants must maintain liability insurance covering their outdoor dining area. Health department requirements apply to outdoor food service areas including proper food handling and storage. Outdoor dining areas must not obstruct fire hydrants, building exits, utility access, or transit stops. The Downtown Denver BID may have additional design guidelines for furniture, barriers, and signage. Permit fees are based on the square footage occupied in the public right-of-way.
Operating a sidewalk cafe without proper permits results in fines and potential removal of outdoor furniture by DOTI. Failure to maintain pedestrian clearance may result in ADA complaints and permit revocation. Obstructing fire hydrants or building exits is a violation of the Denver Fire Code.
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