Fort Worth, TX Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Cafe Rules (2026)

Fort Worth's sidewalk cafe program is administered by the Development Services Department. Restaurants wishing to place tables, chairs, and barriers on public sidewalks must obtain a Sidewalk Cafe Permit in addition to their food establishment permit required under Chapter 16 of the Fort Worth Code of Ordinances. The permit requires maintaining a minimum 5-foot unobstructed pedestrian clearway on the sidewalk at all times to ensure ADA accessibility. Applicants must submit a site plan showing the proposed cafe area, furniture layout, pedestrian clearway, and barrier placement. All furniture and barriers must meet city specifications and be removed or secured during non-operating hours if required by the permit conditions. The cafe area may not extend beyond the building frontage of the permit holder's establishment. Permits are issued annually and must be renewed. The permit holder is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the sidewalk cafe area and the surrounding sidewalk. The city reserves the right to revoke permits for non-compliance or when public improvements require the sidewalk space.