City of Boston’s New Process for Outdoor Dining

Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston rolled out a new, streamlined process for permanent outdoor dining on public property in the City of Boston last week. Replacing and building off the success of the temporary outdoor dining program implemented during the pandemic, the new permanent process seeks to make outdoor dining accessible to all neighborhoods throughout the city while ensuring public safety and accessibility. Businesses interested in outdoor dining should begin the online application and start community outreach as soon as possible; approved businesses can commence outdoor dining on May 1, 2023. The new online application requires, among other items, proof of compliance with accessibility requirements, submission of a site plan stamped by a professional engineer, and other supporting documents.

If you have questions or would like assistance with outdoor dining, please contact Lesley Delaney Hawkins or any member of the Restaurant and Hospitality Practice Group.