Sidewalk Café Permit: Nashville restaurant guide

Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT)

What it is

Permission to put tables and chairs on the public sidewalk in front of your restaurant.

When a restaurant needs it

Any outdoor dining in the public right-of-way. Private patios don't need this but are reviewed with your building permit.

How to apply

Apply in ePermits with your site address and seating plan.

Documents you’ll need

Site address
Seating plan showing tables, chairs and clear path

Fee

$250 non-refundable application fee + annual right-of-way fee: under 500 sq ft $200; 500–1,000 sq ft $300; over 1,000 sq ft $500

Processing time

Varies

Renewal

Annual

Who files

The business owner or agent applies.

Good to know

Confirm with NDOT and TABC/Beer Board whether your alcohol licenses cover the café area before serving outside.

Official source

NDOT — Sidewalk café permit

Get your personalized Nashville permit plan

Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.