Huntsville, AL Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit fee
- $100.00 annual, non-refundable
- Issuing office
- City clerk-treasurer
- Minimum clear sidewalk
- 5 feet for pedestrians
- Area covered
- Central city core area only
- Outdoor entertainment
- No live music; recordings stop 10 p.m.
Summary
Restaurants in Huntsville's central city core need a $100 annual sidewalk cafe permit before putting tables on the public sidewalk.
Subject to the provisions of this section, any person engaged in the business of operating a restaurant, cafe, cafeteria, or other public place where meals, food, or refreshments are prepared and furnished upon premises licensed for such use that are within the central city core area may apply for a sidewalk cafe permit... The applicant for a sidewalk cafe permit shall pay $100.00... there shall be at least a minimum sidewalk width of five feet of unencumbered sidewalk that is open for pedestrian use.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 30 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Sec. 18-36 lets a restaurant, cafe, or cafeteria in the central city core area apply to the city clerk-treasurer for a sidewalk cafe permit to use the adjacent public sidewalk for patron seating. At least 5 feet of unencumbered sidewalk must stay open for pedestrians, chairs must be removed or secured after closing, no outdoor bathrooms are allowed, and all tables, railings, awnings, and umbrellas need Central City Review Committee approval before installation. Alcohol service on the permitted premises requires the establishment's on-premises license to cover that space, liquor liability coverage, and a ban on outside live entertainment (recorded music must stop by 10:00 p.m.).
Violations & Fines
The permit is automatically revoked if the business license lapses; the city clerk-treasurer can revoke, suspend, or deny renewal for a violation after a cure period of up to 20 days, with appeal to the Central City Review Committee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where in Huntsville can a restaurant get a sidewalk cafe permit?
Can a Huntsville sidewalk cafe serve alcohol?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Huntsville
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