New Rochelle, NY Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

Section 267-2 requires an application to the Department of Development, with review by the Department of Public Works and, where required, the Municipal Arts Commission; cafes inside the Downtown Overlay Zone follow DOZ rules instead. Permits are issued annually and run from issuance through December 31. Section 267-3 sets the physical standards: the sidewalk from property line to curb must be at least 10 feet wide, the cafe cannot extend more than 10 feet from the property line or beyond the side property lines, no permanent structures may be affixed, and only chairs, tables, benches, umbrellas, movable railings and planters are allowed, arranged to enclose the dining area.

A three-foot clear path must remain at every building entrance, and a five-foot clearance free of obstructions such as trees, parking meters, utility poles and benches must be kept for pedestrians. Outdoor lighting and live or mechanical music are barred except where the Commissioner orders added lighting for safety. Operators must carry general comprehensive liability insurance naming the City as an insured, with limits of $25,000/$50,000 for property damage and $1,000,000/$2,000,000 for personal injury. m. m. Friday and Saturday, and alcohol may be served only to seated patrons of a restaurant properly licensed by the State Liquor Authority.

Section 267-4 requires a $100 deposit at issuance to guarantee compliance and removal of furnishings at expiration; the Commissioner can terminate a permit for violations after five days' written notice and a hearing.