Manhattan sidewalk dining is regulated under the Dining Out NYC program (Local Law 121 of 2023) administered by DOT, replacing the former DCWP sidewalk cafe license.
Sidewalk cafes in New York County (Manhattan) are now regulated under the permanent Dining Out NYC program established by Local Law 121 of 2023, which replaced the old DCWP sidewalk cafe license and temporary Open Restaurants pandemic program. The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) administers license and revocable-consent applications. Sidewalk cafes must preserve an 8-foot pedestrian clear path, set back from curbs, and close nightly (roadway cafes ran April 1-November 29 in early rules). Enclosed structures in the roadway are banned; only umbrellas, planters, and removable furniture are allowed. Community board review and NYC Zoning Resolution location restrictions still apply. Fees are phased in based on sidewalk or roadway use and location tier. Violations bring DOT fines and license revocation.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how New York County's sidewalk cafe rules rules stack up against other locations.
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