SERVICE
Get permission to use the sidewalk for your business
Register to use the sidewalk space in front of your storefront for customer seating or merchandise display. No permit or fee is required.
Public WorksWhat to know
Cost
FreeNo permit or fee required
As of August 2025, small businesses no longer need a permit or have to pay a fee to set up tables, chairs, or merchandise displays on the sidewalk. Learn more about the policy change.
What to know
Cost
FreeNo permit or fee required
As of August 2025, small businesses no longer need a permit or have to pay a fee to set up tables, chairs, or merchandise displays on the sidewalk. Learn more about the policy change.
What to do
1. Decide your layout
Before you register, figure out how you want to use the sidewalk space in front of your business.
To do this:
- Review the design guidelines to understand the rules.
- Measure your sidewalk to see how much usable space you have. You must leave at least 6 feet clear for people walking.
- Make sure you are not blocking entrances, fire hydrants, ramps, or corner zones.
- Plan where you will place tables, chairs, displays, and diverters.
You can check sidewalk width using this map of sidewalk widths from 2014. Some streets may be missing or have outdated information. If your block is not shown or the data looks incorrect, you can measure yourself or estimate.
2. Fill out the registration form
Use the online form to tell us how you plan to use the sidewalk.
You will need to provide:
- Your Business Account Number
- What you plan to place on the sidewalk (tables, chairs, merchandise)
- A photo of your sidewalk or a simple sketch of your layout (optional)
The form also includes a short checklist to help you avoid common safety issues.
3. Wait for confirmation and set up your furniture
After you submit the registration form, you will receive an email letting you know whether you are automatically registered or if your application needs a review.
- If your email says you are automatically registered, you may begin setting up your furniture or merchandise display right away. Make sure your setup matches what you described in your form.
- If your application needs review, someone from Public Works will contact you to talk about your layout before you set up.
Important reminders
- You are responsible for following all rules in the design guidelines
- Your setup must leave at least 6 feet of clear sidewalk for people walking.
- You must have your own insurance coverage. The City is not responsible for any claims or damages that result from your sidewalk setup.
- If your layout blocks access, creates a hazard, or violates the rules, you may be subject to fines or enforcement by the city.
- If your setup violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), you could be sued and held legally or financially responsible.