Sidewalk Dining

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Santa Monica's Sidewalk Dining Program allows legally established restaurants and other eating/drinking establishments to extend their service onto the public right-of-way (sidewalk), bringing vibrant outdoor dining to the city's sidewalks, corridors, and the Third Street Promenade. Through a streamlined two-part approval process — a City sidewalk dining permit paired with an Outdoor Dining License Agreement (ODA) — eligible businesses can create welcoming, accessible, and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces that enliven the streetscape while maintaining safe pedestrian flow.

Following the July 1, 2026 launch of the city's new Simple Table + Chairs Program, the Sidewalk Dining program is best suited for businesses wishing to include a barrier or fixture within their outdoor dining area.

Businesses utilizing only moveable furniture should consider the Simple Table + Chairs Program for a more streamlined, fee-free experience.

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FAQ

What is the cost to apply for a Sidewalk Dining Permit and License Agreement?

Costs include permit/inspection fees, security deposits, and review fees from each City Department that reviews your application. All applications go through Public Works, and some designs may also require review by Mobility, Building and Safety, Planning, or Fire — individual department fees range from $250–$550.

Monthly license fees are collected by the Economic Development Division. See the fee table for current rates.

NEW: For a fee-free experience, consider our Simple Tables + Chairs program for sidewalk dinning spaces with no barriers or other fixtures.

What is the Wastewater Fee?

The Wastewater Fee is a one-time charge that funds conveyance and treatment capacity improvements to handle increased wastewater from added seating. It only applies if you're adding net new seats — moving existing indoor seats outdoors does not trigger this fee.

As part of the city's Realignment Plan, the Santa Monica portion (~$1,400/seat) is currently waived. The City of Los Angeles Hyperion fee of ~$400/seat still applies.

To claim credits for previously permitted seating, you will need to submit your original approved site plan alongside an updated plan showing your new indoor/outdoor seat distribution.

Can I have both Sidewalk Dining and a Parklet?

Yes, but you will need to apply for both programs separately.

Click here to learn more about the Parklet application.

Public Works - Plan Check Fee:	$263.79
Public Works - Outdoor Dining Inspection Fee:	$262.77
Planning Review Fee (applies if alcohol is being served):	$107.52
LA Wastewater Capital Facility Fee per net new seat (Full Service):	$323.21
-OR- LA Wastewater Capital Facility Fee per net new seat (Fast Food):	$269.34

Sidewalk Dining

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One-Time Fees (Subject to change)

Security Deposit

Monthly Fee (Subject to change)