Houston, TX Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)
Key Facts
- Licensing authority
- City Traffic Engineer
- License term
- 1 year, renewable
- Required insurance
- $1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate
- Curb clearance
- At least 2 feet from curbline
- Structures
- No permanent walls; open-air only
Summary
Houston restaurants must obtain a one-year license from the city traffic engineer before setting up an outdoor sidewalk cafe, with insurance, a bond, and strict placement rules.
(c)License required. It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, operate or maintain a sidewalk cafe without first obtaining a license to do so as provided in this action.
Full Breakdown
Under City Code § 40-10.1, no one may erect, operate or maintain a sidewalk cafe on a public right-of-way without a license from the traffic engineer. Applicants file a site plan, provide proof of abutting-property ownership, and carry $1,000,000/$2,000,000 liability insurance naming the city as additional insured. Tables, chairs and barriers must stay clear of a designated 'public clearance way' and at least two feet from the curbline; nothing may be permanently attached to the sidewalk.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a license is unlawful and punishable under the general penalty section § 1-6. The traffic engineer can suspend a license up to one year after written notice, or revoke it after three violation notices in a year, requiring immediate removal of all tables, chairs and appurtenances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Houston restaurants need a permit for sidewalk dining?
How long does a Houston sidewalk cafe license last?
What happens if a licensee violates the sidewalk cafe rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
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