Outdoor Dining 

Outdoor Dining Program

The City has a new permanent outdoor dining program that went into effect May 1, 2022. Restaurants can apply for a Parklet Permit and/or a Sidewalk and Pedestrian Mall Outdoor Dining Permit.

Sidewalk and Pedestrian Mall Outdoor Dining Encroachment Permit 

This program allows ground floor food service businesses to provide outdoor seating and related furnishings in the following areas:

  • Commercial districts on the sidewalk (with the exception of along El Camino Real).
  • The pedestrian malls on B Street between 1st and 3rd Avenue on the sidewalk and/or street.

If you are interested in providing outdoor dining on public sidewalks or in the pedestrian malls, please review the program guidelines and permit application.

Parklet Encroachment Permit

This permit allows food service businesses to construct seating areas in on-street parking spaces directly in front of their business. Parklets are allowed in all commercial districts except along El Camino Real. Parklet Encroachment permits are not allowed inside the pedestrian mall (B Street between 1st and 3rd Avenue). If you are interested in expanding your business into the on-street parking area, please review the City’s Parklet Program Guidelines and Parklet Encroachment Permit Application.

Questions? 

Contact: 

Jennifer Chen             Economic Development Manager jchen@cityofsanmateo.org  (650) 522-7009

Important Documents:

Sidewalk and Pedestrian Mall Outdoor Dining Permit Program

Parklet Program Guidelines

Parklet Permit Application