Sidewalk Cafe Application - New Application

 

Apply for New Sidewalk Cafe Permit

Step 1.Verify Eligibility

Ensure that your property is located within a B-zoned or O-1 district. Use the map below or call the Planning Department at 402-441-7491.

Step 2.Prepare Application Attachments (for Later Upload to Project Dox)

All documentation will need to be uploaded into Project Dox for review.  You will receive an email with further instructions once your application form has been reviewed by staff. 

  1. Lincoln Food Establishment Permit

    If you are a licensed food establishment, have your Food Establishment Permit ready.  If you don't have one, schedule an inspection with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department at 402-441-6280.

  2. Description of food and drink (alcoholic and/or non-alcoholic)

  3. Liquor license (if alcohol is served)

  4. Site plan of the proposed sidewalk cafe.

    Site Plan Template(PDF, 177KB)

    Applicants who choose to submit drawings in their own sheet formats must ensure that all items listed in this site plan template are addressed.
    • Include dimensions, location of furniture, fences, entrances and exits, clearance between existing street furniture and your proposed sidewalk cafe.
    • Applicants may add additional sheets if more supporting drawings or details are required.
    • Before submitting, review your plan against this checklist to ensure all applicable elements are included.

  5. Furniture and/or equipment specifications with photographs

  6. Barrier specifications with photographs

  7. Proof of insurance which meets requirements of 14.50.080

    Insurance example(PDF, 255KB)

  8. Bond in the amount of $5,000 for Occupier of Public Space

    Bond example(PDF, 97KB)

  9. Completed permit agreement(PDF, 139KB)

  10. Building Permit (if needed)

  11. Notarized Letter of Consent from Record Property Owner

  12. Signed Lease

Please Note - Incomplete applications will not move forward in the approval process.

Step 3.Submit Application

Complete the Sidewalk Cafe Permit Application. 

New sidewalk cafe applications will be handled by the Planning Department using Project Dox; an online electronic submittal and review  software.  Once your application for a new sidewalk cafe is received, Project Dox will send an email with instructions for you to upload all application materials.  

Please be advised:  The cafe cannot be constructed or operated until all permits are ISSUED.  An in progress application is NOT sufficient to begin construction or operation.     

Step 4.Review Process

New applications will be reviewed by the Outdoor Dining Committee.  Sidewalk cafes that meet the design standards found in the Sidewalk Cafe Guidebook(PDF, 13MB) will likely be approved administratively.

Any application that deviates from the design standards will be reviewed by the appropriate design board.

Questions about the design standards or potential deviations should be directed to the Planning Department at 402-441-7491.

Step 5.Approval & Next Steps

Once approved, the City Clerk's office will contact you with information about payment of the rent for the use of the sidewalk space.

Congratulations!

Additional New Application Resources

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