Sherman, TX Special Events & Permits: Sidewalk Dining & Cafés (2026)

Two sections of the Sherman Code of Ordinances govern sidewalk dining in the City of Sherman, Grayson County, Texas. Section 4.14.036(d), in the alcoholic beverages article, says outdoor dining in the city-owned pedestrian right-of-way is permitted so long as an unobstructed right-of-way is maintained. The standard it points to sits in § 3.10.001(b), titled use of public way in the central business district.

That subsection defines the central business district by cross-reference to section 14.03.009(b)(1) and defines the public way as all sidewalk areas held or controlled by the city or another public entity legally open to public use. The key term is the unobstructed pedestrian area: an area at least 36 inches in width between the curb and the property line that is completely unobstructed, even with posts, and that must include the sidewalk area. Under (b)(2) it is unlawful to place or deposit merchandise, food, signs, potted plants, benches, tables or chairs within that area.

Furniture has its own standard in (b)(4): tables or chairs placed in the public right-of-way must be of sturdy, non-rusty and non-splintering construction and appropriate in color and style to the area. Merchandise cannot be sold from the public way unless allowed through a special event, and the definition of merchandise excludes the sale of food and beverages. Awning and balcony supports within the sidewalk need approval from the director of engineering.

Alcohol adds a second layer. Under § 4.14.036(d) it is a defense to prosecution under section 8.03.002 that the alcoholic beverage was consumed in a clearly identifiable outdoor dining area served by an adjacent commercial establishment within the downtown district. Everywhere else on a public street, sidewalk or alley, § 4.14.061 makes consumption unlawful unless a council-approved special event meets its security and insurance conditions. These sections print no application, fee or separate permit for a dining area.