District News

FAQ on Indoor and Outdoor Dining Guidelines

Nov 10, 2020
diner and waiter interacting inside a restaurant during the covid19 pandemic

The NYC Department of Small Business Services' Food and Beverage Industry Partnership and Office of Nightlife at the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment teams have compiled this Multi-Agency FAQ for Indoor and Outdoor Dining Guidelines and Regulations to supplement existing COVID-19 guidance from the Mayor's Office and multiple City agencies. 

Topics Include: Health & Safety, Indoor Dining (including Indoor Occupancy), Outdoor Dining (including Outdoor Dining Structures, Propane Heaters, and Electric/Gas Heaters), and Music, Performances and Events. One noteworthy piece of information is that significant snow events may necessitate the temporary removal of some barriers from the roadway. Operators are encouraged to sign up at NotifyNYC to receive alerts about severe weather events and emergencies that may affect their operation of outdoor dining. And, we will continue to provide updates as we monitor DSNY's plans as they evaluate how to manage the snow. 

The FAQ page is updated frequently as new information is released. Click here to read the FAQ on indoor and outdoor dining. And, for more information, you can call the Business Reopening Hotline at 888-SBS-4NYC (or 888-727-4692).

Photo credit: Elena Olivo