Houston restaurants may establish sidewalk dining areas with a permit from the Administration and Regulatory Affairs Department. A minimum 5-foot pedestrian clearance must be maintained on the sidewalk.
Houston allows restaurants to place tables and chairs on public sidewalks under a sidewalk cafe permit issued by the Administration and Regulatory Affairs (ARA) Department. The restaurant must maintain a minimum 5-foot clear pedestrian path on the sidewalk at all times in compliance with ADA requirements. The cafe area must be delineated with an approved barrier such as planters or stanchions. Furniture must be removed or secured outside operating hours. Alcohol service in the sidewalk area requires appropriate TABC licensing. The permit is annual and the restaurant is responsible for keeping the sidewalk clean and in good repair. Health Department food safety standards apply to food served outdoors. Houston expanded outdoor dining provisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many temporary provisions have been made permanent.
Operating without a permit or blocking the pedestrian path can result in fines and permit revocation. ADA violations are subject to federal enforcement. The city may remove unauthorized furniture from the right-of-way.
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