City of Delray Beach, FL
Home MenuSidewalk Cafes
Application
Approved permits require annual renewal.
Click here to start the application for a Sidewalk Café in eServices.
Regulations
Click here to read the Sidewalk Cafe Ordinance 2019
What is a Sidewalk Café?
A Sidewalk Café is an outdoor dining area consisting of tables and chairs, approved through a Sidewalk Café permit issued by the City. Sidewalk Café seating is located in front of a business. All Sidewalk Cafés must comply with LDR Section 6.3.3 to receive approval of a permit prior to operating.
Permit Validity and Renewal
- Sidewalk Café permits are valid for one year and must be renewed annually by July 1st.
- Existing permits not renewed by the deadline will incur late fees upon submission of the renewal application.
- Businesses operating without a valid permit are subject to code enforcement action.
- Renewal applications are reviewed under current regulations—there are no grandfathered approvals.
Regulation Changes and Compliance
If regulations change and an approved Sidewalk Café no longer complies, the approved Cafe may remain legally non-conforming until the next renewal date, unless otherwise specified by ordinance. Businesses should stay informed about regulatory updates to ensure compliance.
Ownership Changes
In the event of a change in ownership, whether by sale or transfer, a new application must be submitted, including a Hold Harmless Agreement.For more details or to apply, please contact the City’s permitting office.
Required Documentation: The following documents are required to be submitted with all Sidewalk Cafe permit applications:
- General Liability and Insurance Certificate
- Sidewalk Cafe Affidavit and Hold Harmless
- Property Survey
- Seating Plan / Diagram with all dimensions
- Seating Area Photos
- Intent to Use Property In Front of An Adjacent Business (Separate Application required from primary business)
- Owner's Consent and Designation of Agency
Note: Additional information and/or documentation may be requested to assist with the review of the request and ensure compliance.
Example Documents:
- Sidewalk Cafe Application Diagram and Insurance Certificate Examples
- Click here to view the Sidewalk Cafe Right of Way Map
Fees
- $150.00 Application Fee + $4.75/sq. ft. for areas adjacent to or within a City right-of-way
- $150.00 Application Fee + $5.00/sq. ft. for areas adjacent to or within the Atlantic Avenue FDOT right-of-way
- $150.00 Application Fee + $6.50/sq. ft. for areas adjacent to or within NE/SE 5th and 6th Avenues FDOT right-of-way
- $150.00 Application Fee + $10.00/sq. ft. for areas adjacent to or within Ocean Blvd./A1A FDOT right-of-way
Please provide the application fee and the square footage fee as two separate payments.
