Kent, WA Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

070 bars anyone from operating a sidewalk cafe without a director-issued permit. 140(E). The director may only grant the permit if the applicant owns or occupies the abutting property and operates a cafe, restaurant, or tavern there; the cafe leaves at least four feet of clear sidewalk to the nearest street trees, poles, signs, meters, hydrants, and structures consistent with ADA standards; and the area is covered by a Seattle-King County health department food-service permit. The director can attach conditions covering table and chair placement, hours of use, mandatory clearing when not in use or on order of the director, police chief, or fire chief, lighting and noise limits, a surety bond or escrow account, and sidewalk restoration once the cafe use ends.

No pavement may be broken or permanent fixtures installed without express authorization. Liquor may only be served if separately authorized by both the street use permit and a Washington State Liquor Control Board permit. The permittee must keep the sidewalk clean and safe and clear it immediately when ordered by the director or police or fire chief.