A sidewalk café is defined as a permitted area within the public right-of-way consisting of tables and chairs where patrons may be served food and/or beverages from an adjacent café or restaurant. Sidewalk cafes typically consist of tables and chairs arranged in a single row on the sidewalk.  City Code states that it is unlawful for any person to operate a sidewalk café on any public street or sidewalk within the City of Portland without first obtaining a valid permit from the City Engineer.

For detailed information please see the Sidewalk Cafe Permit Information and Application Packet.

Sidewalk Cafés are covered in section 17.25 of City Code.

An information/application packet is available online or at 1120 SW 5th Avenue, Rm 800.

(Portland Building) Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday.

How to Contact Us: