In New York City, a new and convoluted approval process for outdoor dining sheds has resulted in over 3,600 pending applications, with only 40 permits issued so far. Restaurant owners are anxious about investments made for the upcoming al fresco season, as the lengthy process requires approvals from multiple city departments. Manager Tom Avallone highlights issues caused by the delays, as restaurants are uncertain about their ability to operate by April 1 due to the complicated regulations introduced by the City Council.
The lengthy process for roadway dining unveiled by the City Council in 2023 requires approval from the Department of Transportation, local community board, and the city comptroller's office.
Tom Avallone, manager of Nick's Bistro in Forest Hills, complains, 'The city extorted money from us. We were obligated to apply for the permit and pay the fee by Aug. 3... now there is nothing we can do until we know what's gonna happen.'
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