Dining Out NYC is the permanent outdoor dining program for all five boroughs.
Learn more about Dining Out NYC.
Key Dates
- March 5, 2024: Food service establishments may begin applying online to join the Dining Out NYC program.
- August 3, 2024: Deadline for food service establishments with existing temporary outdoor dining setups to apply to continue operating until Department of Transportation (DOT) approves the application.
- November 1, 2024: A temporary program outdoor dining setup that applied before August 3, 2024 must comply with the new Dining Out NYC design requirements by the earlier of 30 days after NYC DOT approves the Dining Out NYC application or November 1, 2024.
Applications and Guidelines
All eligible food service establishments are welcome to apply citywide.
Outdoor dining setups must be safe, accessible, and easy to assemble and break down. No fully enclosed structures are allowed.
Roadway setups allowed for an eight-month season from April 1 through November 29. Sidewalk setups are allowed year-round.
You can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply on the Dining Out NYC application website.
Learn more and apply for Dining Out NYC.
Fees
The cost to participate will vary based on the location of your restaurant and the size of your outdoor dining setup.
Restaurants will need to pay two separate fees:
- License Fee: A $1,050 license fee, covering the four-year license term, for roadway or sidewalk dining, or $2,100 for both roadway and sidewalk dining.
- Revocable Consent Fee: An annual revocable consent fee paid each year in the four-year term that will be determined based on the location of your restaurant and the size of your outdoor dining setup.
Learn more about fees and insurance requirements.
Program Assistance
Owners of food establishments can go online to learn about the requirements for outdoor dining roadway or sidewalk cafes.
Learn about outdoor dining setup guides.
Learn about other restaurant resources.
NYC Small Business Services (SBS) offers a variety of services at no cost to help your business start, operate, or grow, including business education courses, legal services, and more.
- Agency: Small Business Services
- Division: NYC Small Business Services Hotline
- Phone Number: 888-SBS-4NYC (888-727-4692)
- Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM
- Please call (212) 618-8810 after hours.
