Require Outdoor Cafe Operators to Keep Spaces Clean
In committee as of Jul 31, 2026Under review by an assigned committee.
✦ Plain-Language Summary
This law would require restaurants with outdoor seating on sidewalks or roadways to keep those spaces free of trash, graffiti, pests, and other unsanitary conditions. If a cafe owner fails to maintain cleanliness, they could face fines starting at $300 for a first violation and $600 for repeat violations. This aims to make outdoor dining areas cleaner and safer for all New Yorkers.
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Details
- Introduced
- May 20, 2026
- Body
- Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
- Type
- Introduction
- Status
- Laid Over in Committee
Official Description
This bill would require roadway and sidewalk cafe operators to ensure that their outdoor setups are clear of trash, debris, graffiti, vermin, food scraps and unsanitary conditions. Operators who violate this provision would be subject to civil penalties ranging from $300 for the first offense to $600 for the second and subsequent offenses.