Outdoor Dining

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Please read our new Outdoor Dining Design Guide to learn how to set up your outdoor dining area. 

Stamford Outdoor Dining Design Guide

Outdoor dining in Stamford comes in two forms: Sidewalk Cafes and Streateries. 

  • Sidewalk Cafes are for sidewalk dining only
    • Permitted March 15 to November 30
  • Streateries are for dining in roads, parking spaces, and parking lots
    • Permitted April 1 to November 1

Permit fee Schedule as of 1/1/2025

Fee Level Seating Number in Public Right-of-Way Fee
Level 1 20 seats or fewer $300.00
Level 2 21-45 Seats $600.00
Level 3 Greater than 45 seats $1,800.00

Notwithstanding the above, the yearly fee for the permit and license for an Outdoor Dining Area that includes the use of a metered parking space shall be charged a fee equal to Level 3, regardless of the number of seats in the Public Right-of-Way.

The yearly fee for the permit for Outdoor Dining solely on private property shall be equal to Level 1, as set forth above.

Outdoor Dining Ordinance

Required Documents

Make sure you have the following documents as part of your application:

  • Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement (see sample to the left under Documents)
  • Certificate of Insurance (see sample to the left under Documents)
    •  Please upload your certificate of insurance - minimum coverage $1 Million per occurrence and $2 Million in aggregate must include outdoor and City property and must contain the following language: "The City of Stamford is named as an additional insured with respect to Outdoor Seating at said restaurant. 
  • Sketch of plan of proposed outdoor dining layout
    •  A drawing or illustration with dimensions depicting with reasonable accuracy the location of public waiting areas, tables, chairs, temporary poles, planters, buildings, curbs, roadway, railings, similar supports and dividers and like appurtenances. A clear and unobstructed 48" path for pedestrian movement that allows ingress and egress to any building access point.
  • Picture of ADA compliant barrier to be placed fully around outdoor dining area on sidewalk
  • Owners Authorization Form (see sample to the left under Documents)
  • Liquor License (if selling liquor)
  • Valid Health Department Food Service Establishment License

 

Outdoor Dining Permit Guide outlining the 8 steps to get an outdoor dining permit in Stamford. Step 1 Review the Outdoor Dining Design Guide, Step 2 Submit Application, Step 3 Review by City Staff, Step 4 Fee payment, Step 5 permit issuance, Step 6 Outdoor dining Area construction, Step 7 inspections, Step 8 Take down