Kenosha, WI Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

046 of the Code of General Ordinances requires any business placing tables, chairs or other Dining Appurtenances in the public right-of-way, a Major Street Setback Area, or on Public Property to hold an Outdoor Dining Area Permit issued by the Committee on Licenses/Permits. The application goes to the City Clerk/Treasurer and must show the applicant's information, the nature of the business, maximum tables and chairs, the zoning district, an indemnity and hold-harmless agreement, a scaled site plan, and photographs of the proposed area. Applicants must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance naming the City as an additional insured.

The initial review fee is $50, with an annual permit fee of $100, and the permit term runs January 1 through December 31 and is not transferable; an Outdoor Extension for a Class B, B or C liquor license adds a $150 review fee and $150 annual renewal. Design rules require a clear Pedestrian Path at least four feet wide (reducible to three feet with conditions), require the sidewalk be at least ten feet wide from curb to building line (reducible to eight feet), keep the area two feet off the curb and five feet from fire hydrants and driveways, and cap enclosure barriers between thirty and forty-two inches high.

063(D) cannot get its permit approved or renewed. The City Clerk/Treasurer notifies the Department of City Development annually by November 1 to review each permit for renewal.