How to Apply for a Sidewalk Dining License

Thank you for your interest in participating in the Santa Monica Outdoors program.  We are pleased to offer the opportunity to our local businesses to apply for a Sidewalk Dining Permit and License Agreement.  The permit and license are required to operate any sidewalk dining in the public right‐of‐way. Both aspects are completed through the same Online application - only one submittal is required.

To read the latest Frequently Asked Questions click here.  If you would like to expand your outdoor dining in front of a neighboring vacant space, you will need to include the Neighbor Consent Form with your permit application. (Download and open the form with Adobe in order to sign. Otherwise, fill out the form and print it for your signature.)

We also offer a Parklet Program - for more info >

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Continue the Process:

  1. Review

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    Before submitting your application, review the general and design standards. The site plan of your proposed sidewalk dining area must include the total number of tables and chairs. The license has insurance requirements, and there are permit application fees.  Read the Sidewalk Dining Guidelines for more information.

  2. Submit an application

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    Now that you are prepared, go to the Application for Sidewalk Dining Permit at CityGrows to apply for a Minor Outdoor Dining (MOD) & Use Permit. Follow the steps to complete your application. Please take note that City staff will contact you through the CityGrows website under Discussion. You can start a discussion and reply there too!

    A Minor Outdoor Dining (MOD) & Sidewalk Use Permit may be issued to allow the placement of tables, chairs, and/or benches to be utilized for dining and/or restaurant waiting purposes. The permit approval process is based on providing and maintaining adequate pedestrian access.

    Any change in setup from the approved site plan, such as expansion in size and/or placement of additional chairs and tables requires the submittal of a new permit application and revised seating location diagram for review and approval.

  3. License

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    When your permit has been approved through CityGrows, you will be required to submit a security deposit prior to the issuance of your Outdoor Dining Area License Agreement (ODA). Upon receipt of your ODA, you are welcome to operate your new outdoor dining area.  ODA's are issued for a 5-year term and require payment of a monthly license fee (see table below).

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