An Alfresco Boom

The outdoor dining scene in New York City has boomed since regulations were relaxed during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Not only does it offer a way for local restaurants to earn more, it also provides additional jobs for food service workers and opportunities for New Yorkers to enjoy the outdoors in their beloved city. 

Regulations, Regulations, Regulations

However, since the pandemic, outdoor dining has seen its share of issues and opposition, including decreased parking spaces, and safety and sanitary concerns. As a result, outdoor dining has become heavily regulated by various New York City agencies. Navigating it all is a challenge for restaurants on top of the hundreds of other regulations you must comply with. For example, to obtain a license to build an outdoor dining space, restaurants must enter into a contract with a pest control company to maintain a sanitary environment. Additional regulatory considerations exist if you plan to serve patrons liquor outdoors or if your setup will encroach on neighboring private property. 

Even with regulations, for many restaurants, a sidewalk or roadway dining space is worth it for the significant revenue it brings.

Services 

My name is Jasmine Cooper-Little, and I am an attorney in New York City. My experience spans complex regulatory compliance and litigation against the world’s largest companies, including Qualcomm and Wells Fargo, but working with food businesses is my true passion. 

Obtaining an outdoor dining permit is a complicated process for restaurant owners. With so many competing and new regulations, the chances of error are high. I will handle the complicated process of obtaining an outdoor dining license for you so you’ll have the best chances of success.

Take the assessment below to find out if your business might be eligible, and we’ll be in touch within 48 hours.