Jessamine County, KY Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

A sidewalk cafe is an exception to the county's patio rule. Under § 111.160, outdoor alcohol sales are allowed only on premises licensed for sales by the drink, and only in a clearly defined area enclosed by a fence or other screening not less than four feet in height. Section 111.161 lets licensees in the Downtown Business District request an exception for seasonal and temporary sidewalk cafes, which are deemed part of the licensed premises. Tables and seating cannot sit on public sidewalks on a continuous basis from November 1 through February 28, although they can be placed intermittently when appropriate weather occurs.

Only a restaurant qualifies, defined as a food establishment with a kitchen licensed by the Jessamine County Health Department that also holds a license under the chapter and the State ABC Code. It can expand onto only that part of the public sidewalk immediately adjoining the licensed premises. Licensees who do not serve food are not eligible. A permit is valid for not more than 12 months at a time and renewal takes a new application. The ABC Administrator can issue it on four findings: the applicant is licensed, complies with the license conditions, holds all building and use permits including the Zoning Administrator's certification and the kitchen license, and the permit would not cause significant adverse land use impacts.

Section 111.162 then sets the operating conditions. A minimum clearance width of 36 inches must stay open on the sidewalk at all times, and the entrance and exit cannot be blocked. Furnishings other than plant tubs come in at the end of each business day at the hour stated in the permit, and everything stays inside the approved area. Public improvements such as trees, light poles, traffic signals, pull boxes and manholes take precedence. Alcohol goes only to patrons of age, with no disposable cups and no takeaway. No amplified sound, no dancing, and the permit cannot be reassigned or transferred. Under § 111.163 the permit is not effective until the licensee files evidence of liability insurance in an amount set by the Fiscal Court, naming the county as additional insured, with a policy that cannot be canceled except on ten days written notice or more.