Adding Outdoor Dining Space To Your License

A statewide program at launch, SLA’s process to add outdoor space for the sale/service of alcoholic beverages as part of a business’ licensed premises is outlined in the Step-by-Step guide below.

More information for businesses participating in NYC DOT’s Dining Out NYC program can be found here:

Dining Out NYC Program

 

Step-by-Step Guide – What You Need When Applying

 

1. Prepare Your Supporting Documents

You must gather and submit the following:

  • Permit or written authorization from your municipality allowing the use of the outdoor space for food/alcohol service.
  • Copy of the municipal permit application you submitted to your local government.
  • Diagram showing:
    • The currently licensed premises.
    • The new outdoor space (contiguous or non-contiguous).
      • Contiguous Space: outdoor space directly next to your location
      • Non-Contiguous Space: separated by a pedestrian/bike lane but still nearby.
    • All seating in both areas.
    • Any barriers, fencing, or access points.
    • Photographs of the outdoor space, fully set up with seating and ready to open.
    • Copy of the completed Standardized Notice Form that was sent to your local municipality (Clerk) or Community Board in NYC. Please note, the required Notice Form is part of the application.
      • Proof that it was mailed or delivered. A return receipt card from the post office, proof of overnight service or stamped by the clerk or Community Board. Instructions for emailing the proof of notice can be found here.
      • The SLA may not act on your application until 30 days after you notify your municipality or Community Board.
  • Insurance Documents:
    • Workers’ compensation insurance.
    • Liability insurance that covers:
      • Injuries on the outdoor space.
      • Cyclists if there’s a bike lane between your bar and the non-contiguous space.

 

2. Fill Out SLA's Municipal Alteration Application
  • Information needed:
    • Your license ID #
    • Your business name and DBA.
    • Business email address. All correspondence will be done via email.
    • Address of your current licensed premises.
    • Description of the outdoor space (include size/dimensions and how it connects to your licensed space).
    • Confirm zoning, occupancy, restrooms, tables/seats, kitchen/food prep area, number of bars, and other operational details.
    • Signature of authorized principal.
  • Your application must contain eight (8) fully completed documents for processing. The SLA Municipal Alteration Application and all seven (7) items listed on page one (1) of that application. Any applications received without all eight (8) items fully completed will be returned. Only complete applications are accepted for processing.

 

3. Email the Application to the SLA
  • Send everything as a single email to: [email protected]
  • No fee is required.
  • If your submission is missing any of the required documents, it will not be accepted, and you will receive an email advising what is missing. You must resubmit your entire application again with the missing item(s).
  • Once your application is accepted you will receive an application receipt by e-mail.
  • Questions should be directed to [email protected] or call 518-474-3114.