Business Outdoor Programs
The City provides several opportunities for restaurateurs and retailers to conduct business outdoors.
Page updated on December 15, 2023 at 1:39 PM
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Programs and Contact Information
Commercial Parklets for Dining and Retail
- 12-month parklet permits
- Dining or retail displays and sales in on-street parking spaces are allowed on a 12-month basis in compliance with the Parklet Requirements and with possession of a valid Right of Way – Administrative Encroachment Permit issued by the Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES).
- Up to six day parklet permits
- Short-Term Parklets cannot be in place for longer than six days and must be operated by a business that is in possession of a Right of Way – Parklet Permit specifically issued for the purpose of Short-Term Parklets, as well as a Temporary Reserved Parking Permit for the dates of operation.
- Contact Alex Boulden or visit the City's Parklet website for more information on how to apply.
Sidewalk Dining in Public Right of Way
- Sidewalk dining in the public right of way is allowed on a 12-month basis in compliance with Section 5-2-29(d) of the City Code and with possession of a valid Right of Way - Administrative Encroachment Permit issued by the Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES). Contact Alex Boulden or visit the City’s Right of Way Administrative Encroachment Permit webpage for more information on how to apply.
Outdoor Dining on Private Property
- This opportunity may require a Special Use Permit (SUP) or an amendment to your existing SUP. Please contact PZnondevelopment@alexandriava.gov to learn if you will need to receive SUP approval or amend your existing SUP in order to operate outdoor dining on private property.
Retail Displays and Sales on Public Sidewalks
- Retail businesses may display and sell merchandise on the sidewalk with possession of a valid Right of Way - Administrative Encroachment Permit issued by the Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES). Contact Alex Boulden or visit the Right of Way Administrative Encroachment Permit webpage for more information on how to apply.
A-frame Sign Use
- All A-frame signs must not block pedestrian passage on the sidewalk and provide at least a five foot width for access along the sidewalk.