City to Start Reviewing Applications for Outdoor Dining Encumbrance Permits Starting March 03, 2025

The City has announced that staff will start reviewing and renewing applications for the 2025 outdoor dining season starting May 01, 2025. Businesses wanting to operate an outdoor café on public property in 2025 can apply for approval by submitting an application through the City's online permitting portal. More information about standards and guidance on application submissions are available on the City's web page. Once an application is approved, the season for use of public realm will be as follows:

• March 03, 2025 – Application period opens.
• May 01, 2025 – (weather permitting) – Use of sidewalks, travel lanes, parking spaces and public realm opens.
• Starting the Week of April 21, 2025 (weather permitting) – Barriers will be placed by DPW.
• October 14, 2025 – Outdoor dining ends.

Please note the following changes for the Outdoor Dining Season approved by City Council on February 20, 2024.

Revised Outdoor Dining Encumbrance Permit Ordinance- please click here 

New Design Standards and Best Practices- please click here 

• Sidewalks and Public Parking Spaces

1. Fees.

• City sidewalks - $5/square foot for café area (minimum $750.00)
• City parking spaces - $5/square foot (minimum $750.00)

2. Abutter Approval. If the applicant proposes utilization of parking spaces or the sidewalk area beyond the extended boundaries of their storefront and into parking or sidewalk area in-front of abutting businesses – they must first provide abutter consent for use of such spaces. Please click here for more information

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• Travel Lanes

1. Fees.

• City streets – travel way - $5/square foot for café area (minimum $750.00)

2. Abutter Approval. If the applicant proposes utilization area beyond the extended boundaries of their storefront and into parking, street, or sidewalk area in-front of abutting businesses – they must first provide abutter consent for use of such spaces. Please click here for more information.

• Outdoor dining is permitted on City side walks, loading zones, sidewalks, and on streets with less than 1,000 vehicles per day

Any questions about the 2025 outdoor dining season can be directed to the Planning Department at (603) 610-7216 or planning@cityofportsmouth.com.