Permit guides › Austin › AUS-TR-16
Parking Lot Patio Permit: Austin restaurant guide
City of Austin Transportation & Public Works Confirm with the city
What it is
Lets you convert privately owned parking spaces into outdoor seating.
When a restaurant needs it
Only if you want seating in your own parking lot.
How to apply
Email the application form to parkinglotpatio@austintexas.gov.
Documents you’ll need
- Parking Lot Patio application
- Site plan of the seating area
Fee
Varies — confirm with the City
Processing time
Varies
Renewal
Annually
Who files
Filed by the business owner or an authorized agent.
Good to know
The City's outdoor seating page confirms the program (renewable annually; apply by emailing the form to parkinglotpatio@austintexas.gov) but publishes no fee — ask before you plan around it.
Official source
Austin — Outdoor seating and retail programs
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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.