Committee recommends replacing tables-and-chairs permits with online registration and waiving minor encroachment fees

The Land Use and Transportation Committee unanimously recommended an ordinance that would streamline approval for café tables and chairs and sidewalk merchandise displays by replacing the current permit-and-fee system with an online registration and no fee requirement.

Katie Tang and staff described the current process as requiring a Public Works permit, an average fee of around $1,000, a certificate of insurance and a detailed site plan plus annual renewal. The proposed change would instead require an online registration where an applicant attests to operating guidelines (including maintaining accessible paths of travel and nightly storage of furniture) and provides contact information for enforcement follow-up.

Tang told the committee there are about 215 businesses with tables-and-chairs permits citywide and said the registration approach would save time and money for small businesses. The ordinance also proposes to eliminate minor encroachment permit requirements and annual occupancy fees for a limited set of common building features (examples include certain water spouts, small gates, and ADA push-button actuators) while retaining required approvals from the Department of Building Inspection.

Board President Rafael Mandelman, who attended the committee, praised the change as overdue, noting the earlier COVID-era waivers and saying eliminating permit barriers would provide greater relief for property owners and businesses.

Member Bilal Mahmood moved the item to the full Board with a positive recommendation; the motion passed 3-0.