Sidewalk Café / Summer Garden Endorsement (ABC): Washington, D.C. restaurant guide
ABCA
What it is
Endorsements to serve alcohol outdoors: Sidewalk Café on public space, Summer Garden on private space such as patios, courtyards and rooftops. ABCA describes the Summer Garden endorsement as covering 'outdoor private space such as a courtyard or rooftop'.
When a restaurant needs it
Serving alcohol in any outdoor seating area.
How to apply
Check the endorsement on the alcohol license application (or apply separately) with the DDOT sidewalk café permit or the landlord letter for a summer garden.
Documents you’ll need
- DDOT sidewalk café permit (public space)
- Landlord letter (summer garden)
- Outdoor seating count and hours
Good to know
A Streatery endorsement covers alcohol in an approved streatery space.
Official source
ABCA: endorsements and permits · ABCA fee schedule
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.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.