Sidewalk and Street Rules for Businesses

Businesses must keep the public areas around their buildings free from objects and structures that make it difficult for pedestrian to pass.

Sidewalk Obstruction

Businesses are responsible for keeping the public sidewalks outside their buildings free from obstructions. This includes advertising signs, ATMs, construction, grass and weeds, merchandise, outdoor dining, and sidewalk stands. 

Check rules and regulations before setting up any structure on the sidewalk outside of your business.

• Signs and displays cannot extend more than 3 feet into the sidewalk from the building or higher than 5 feet.
• Construction sites must allow a minimum of 5 feet for a pedestrian walkway on the sidewalk or in a protected pathway on the street.
• Outdoor dining setups cannot block bike racks, bus shelters, Siamese water connections, sidewalk grates, or utility covers.
• Sidewalk stands adjacent businesses that sell produce, soft drinks, flowers, sweets, or ice cream require a Stoop Line Stand license.

Zero Sidewalk Display Streets

Some sidewalks are too narrow or busy to accommodate any sidewalk structures or displays. If you are on a zero sidewalk display street, you must keep the sidewalk in front of your business free all obstructions.

You can call 311 to find out if your business is on a zero sidewalk display street.

If you fail to keep the sidewalks and gutter areas near your business clean and free from obstruction, you may be fined.

Escalating Fines

Beginning December 19, 2024 the penalty schedule will increase for repeat offenders within a 12-month period.

Local Law 67 of 2024 imposes escalating fines on businesses that repeatedly fail to keep their sidewalks and gutter areas clean and free from obstruction.

Street Obstruction

Businesses cannot leave merchandise, moveable property, or waste in the street, and cannot build sheds or other structures or set up construction sites on public streets without the proper permits.