Reading, PA Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

No sidewalk cafe may be permanently located within the sidewalk area by means of raised deck platform, fence, walls or other structures or enclosed by fixed walls, except that sidewalk cafe boundaries may be delineated by the use of temporary barriers such as balustrades, cordons or railings. Any such temporary barriers must be easily removed and three feet or less in height above the sidewalk. Under no circumstances shall temporary barriers as authorized hereunder be allowed in the identified pedestrian walkway, nor shall a temporary barrier be affixed to the sidewalk or to any permanent structure, except that it may be attached by removable clips or devices approved in advance by the City Engineer.

C.   The City Engineer may approve temporary platforms or similar structures for the sole purpose of leveling sidewalk cafe areas on which sidewalk cafes are located.

D.   No sidewalk cafe shall be situated:

(1)   Within six feet of any pedestrian crossing as defined in the City of Reading Code.

(2)   Within five feet along the street line of any fire hydrant or other emergency facility.

(3)   Within five feet of any driveway.

(4)   Within 10 feet to the rear of any sign marking a designated bus stop.

(5)   In a manner which restricts sight easements of vehicular traffic.

(6)   In a manner which obstructs traffic control devices or traffic signs.

E.   All sidewalk cafes shall be open to the air.