Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Bryan

Bryan, TX Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Governing section
Sec. 106-177, Special Use License
Reviewing body
Site development review committee
Insurance minimum
$1,000,000 per occurrence
Cancellation notice
90 days' written notice
Scope
Downtown right-of-way sidewalk cafes only

Summary

Bryan requires a special use license before placing a sidewalk cafe with removable chairs and planters on the public right-of-way in downtown, reviewed by the site development review committee.

The city may grant a special use license for use of public right-of-way. The city, however, may cancel the license after the grantee has been given 90 days' notice. ... Additional uses permitted in downtown. 1. An awning, canopy, marquee, or sign; 2. A sidewalk cafe containing removable chairs, planters or related materials.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 31).

Full Breakdown

Under Sec. 106-177, a restaurant or bar wanting sidewalk seating on the public right-of-way in downtown Bryan needs a special use license, not just a building permit. The license category covers awnings, canopies, marquees, and sidewalk cafes with removable chairs or planters. Applicants file a signed application, a site plan showing adjacent improvements, and a nonrefundable fee with the planning and development services department, and the site development review committee approves or denies the request. A $1,000,000 liability policy naming the city is mandatory, and the city can cancel the license on 90 days' notice.

Violations & Fines

Placing a sidewalk cafe on the right-of-way without an approved special use license, or letting the required liability insurance lapse, voids the license and the encroachment must be removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bryan allow sidewalk cafes downtown?
Yes. Under Sec. 106-177 the city can grant a special use license for a sidewalk cafe with removable chairs, planters, or related materials on the public right-of-way in the downtown area.
What insurance does a sidewalk cafe license require?
A certificate of liability insurance with at least $1,000,000 per occurrence combined single limit, naming the city, filed with the planning and development services department.
Can the city revoke a sidewalk cafe license?
Yes. The city may cancel the special use license after giving the grantee 90 days' notice, and a lapse in the required insurance voids it automatically.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bryan

Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsBlock Party PermitsSome RestrictionsStreet Fair RulesSome RestrictionsParade PermitsSome RestrictionsPark Event PermitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: BeekeepingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSome Restrictions

All Bryan rules

Texas rules heatmap·Compare Bryan to another location·View the Texas special events & permits overview

Get notified when Sidewalk Dining & Cafés in Bryan, TX changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.