Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

Chapter 275 of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Code, adopted by the Township Council, governs any eating establishment that serves food or refreshments in the public right-of-way, meaning the sidewalk in front of a restaurant, cafe or cafeteria, or on private property where the Land Use Ordinance permits it. Section 275-3 forbids operating one without first obtaining a license and meeting every requirement of the chapter.

The application goes to the Township Clerk under Section 275-4. It must list the applicant and owner, the owner's written authorization if the owner is someone else, the design and location of tables, chairs, planters, awnings, lighting and electrical outlets, the seating capacity of the outdoor area and of the indoor restaurant, a diagram showing pedestrians will not be impeded, and the actual dimensions of the area. The Municipal Engineer or another designated official recommends approval, disapproval or modification within 10 business days, and the Clerk can also refer the file to the Chief of Police, the Chiefs of the Fire Districts, the Health Officer and the Municipal Planner. Before issuance the licensee must file liability insurance of not less than $500,000 for bodily injury or death and not less than $10,000 for property damage, with 30 days' notice to the Township before cancellation. The licensee must also sign an indemnification agreement and a maintenance agreement covering sidewalk damage. The application fee is $200 and is nonrefundable.

Section 275-5 sets the operating rules. The applicant must show a minimum of three feet of unobstructed paved surface for pedestrians. Food and drink cannot be prepared or stored outside the interior. The season runs from April 1 to October 31 and a license is valid for one season. Furniture cannot be attached, chained or affixed to any tree, post, sign, curb or sidewalk. No bell, siren, loudspeaker, public address system or similar sound device can be directed to or from the area. Hours are 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and everything must be removed from the sidewalk within 30 minutes after closing. No added parking is required while outdoor seats stay within 30% of the restaurant's total seats, and any restaurant can install up to three outside tables without affecting the parking standard.