Doral, FL Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

A sidewalk cafe in Doral operates only as an accessory use to a restaurant, and Sec. 8-42 requires the operator to apply to the community development division before opening outdoor seating on a public or private sidewalk. An approved permit runs for one year and renews automatically as long as the cafe stays in compliance, but it cannot be transferred to a new operator or location. Sec. 8-43 splits review by size: cafes of 400 square feet or less are approved administratively by the community development director, while larger cafes pay fees set by the city manager.

Sec. 8-45 then sets the operating standards. The dining area must keep a minimum four-foot clear path for pedestrians between the tables and the edge of the pavement, measured with chairs occupied. Required parking is calculated at one space for every two chairs. Kitchen equipment and refuse containers must stay inside the restaurant, private trash containers are barred from the cafe area, and public sidewalk bins cannot be used for table waste. White plastic furniture is prohibited. A single menu board or sandwich sign up to six square feet is allowed, and hours cannot exceed the restaurant's own hours.

All outdoor furniture must come off the sidewalk once a hurricane warning is issued. Sec. 00 in liquor liability coverage if alcohol is served. Under Sec. 8-47, the city manager must revoke or suspend the permit once a business racks up three violations within a 24-month period.