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

Burleson Code of Ordinances § 70-190 defines a sidewalk cafe as an outdoor dining area associated with a property that includes a restaurant or a food sales use, located on a sidewalk or public parking adjacent to and within the span of the facade of that property, and containing seating, tables, chairs, planters or other appurtenances. Section 70-198(b) then bars anyone from operating a sidewalk cafe in a municipal street without a right-of-way use agreement. Ord. No. 5444-04-2024 adopted the framework on 4/15/2024, and a written agreement the city entered into before April 1, 2024 counts under § 70-198(c).

Only the owner or tenant of the adjacent property can apply, and the city council decides at a duly called meeting. In the Old Town district the Old Town Development Standards Review Committee first comments on whether the design is compatible with the Burleson Old Town Design Standards, though its comments are not approval. The council can sign only after finding that the use does not intrude on a roadway or sidewalk portion needed for pedestrians, does not create a hazardous condition or obstruction, and does not interfere with public use of the street or sidewalk.

The application under § 70-193 must show the name and address of the adjacent business if different from the applicant, a schematic design or site plan with renderings, height and coverage, the location and orientation of any loudspeakers, and whether electrical, mechanical or plumbing work will be done in accordance with the adopted building codes.

Every agreement under § 70-194(a) must make the applicant solely responsible for maintaining the area, require compliance with local, state and federal law including the Americans with Disabilities Act, and require a cash or surety bond covering removal costs. It must also require general liability insurance in the amount the city manager establishes, plus liquor liability insurance where applicable. The applicant must stay current on taxes due to the city, cannot bring or keep hazardous materials in the area, and cannot assign the agreement. Overhangs above the sidewalk are allowed if high enough not to interfere with pedestrian use.