Here are the basics! Click on an element to see its requirements.
Barrier
- A barrier is required on all sides of the roadway cafe except along the sidewalk.
- Barriers cannot be affixed to the roadway in any way.
- The minimum height is 30 inches and the maximum height is 42 inches, not including any plantings.
- The minimum width is 4 inches.
- Only water-filled barriers are allowed unless an alternate fill material is permitted by NYC DOT. Barriers must be filled to a minimum of 150 pounds per linear foot of barrier.
- Barriers must be interconnected.
- A 4 inch wide reflective strip must be included along the outward facing side of each barrier for the entire perimeter of the setup.
- Additional cladding for aesthetic purposes is permitted. Cladding must be securely attached to the barrier. Review additional cladding requirements.
- A barrier may alternatively comply with NYC DOT specifications that match or exceed the above requirements. Food establishments interested in using alternative barriers must request approval from NYC DOT before submitting an application for roadway cafe:
- Review Alternative Barrier Specifications.
- Submit the signed and sealed Alternative Barrier Design Professional Engineer Certification Form.
- Submit your request via email to diningoutdesign@dot.nyc.gov.
- No advertising, however, the name and logo of the establishment permitted. Review graphic and branding requirements.
Barrier
Tables and Chairs
- Must be easily removable and lightweight.
- Cannot be permanently affixed to the roadway.
- Must be located to allow for service of patrons solely from within the perimeter of the roadway cafe.
- Must be ADA-compliant.
Tables and Chairs
Accessibility
- All roadway cafes must meet ADA requirements.
- Flooring is not required, but where it is not used you will need to provide an ADA-compliant ramp to allow access to the roadway cafe.
- If you wish to use flooring, review the requirements.
Accessibility
