Atlanta, GA Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- Atlanta Dept. of Transportation
- Application fee
- $250
- Annual fee
- $500-$1,000 by square footage
- Permit term
- 12 months, renewed annually
- Operating hours
- 7am-11pm Sun-Thu; to midnight Fri-Sat
Summary
Atlanta requires a right-of-way dining permit from the Department of Transportation before any restaurant sets tables on the sidewalk or street, with a $250 application fee and annual fees up to $1,000 based on square footage used.
It shall be unlawful for a person or entity to operate a right-of-way dining area without a permit issued by the commissioner of the department of transportation, or his designee, pursuant to this article. Violations of this section shall be punishable in accordance with section 1-8. Permit issuance for right-of-way dining areas shall be subject to the rules and regulations for outdoor dining within the City of Atlanta Zoning Ordinance.
Full Breakdown
Any eating and drinking establishment that wants to put tables on the sidewalk or street in front of its doors needs a right-of-way dining area permit from Atlanta's Department of Transportation under City Code § 138-233. The application requires a to-scale site plan, an occupational tax certificate, insurance and indemnification documents, and a $250 fee. Annual permit fees run $500 for up to 250 square feet, $750 for 250-500 square feet, and $1,000 for over 500 square feet, per § 138-234. Permits last 12 months, must be renewed annually, and seating cannot exceed 50 percent of the establishment's total capacity.
Violations & Fines
Operating a right-of-way dining area without a permit is punishable under Section 1-8. The city can also suspend or revoke a permit for up to 12 months after notice and a chance to cure, or impose an administrative fine up to $1,000 per day per violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to put tables on the sidewalk outside my Atlanta restaurant?
How much does an Atlanta right-of-way dining permit cost?
What hours can I run outdoor seating in Atlanta's right-of-way?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Atlanta
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Sidewalk Dining & Cafés in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fulton County handle sidewalk dining & cafés.