Outdoor Dining Permit – Use of Sidewalks and Outdoor Seating

Permit for Outdoor Seating (Außengastronomie Genehmigung)

In Germany, a permit is mandatory if you place tables, chairs, umbrellas, flower pots, or menu boards on public sidewalks or spaces in front of your restaurant/café.

Who needs the permit?

• Chairs on sidewalk → Yes, mandatory

• Tables on private property/garden → No

• Displaying goods outside (e.g., vegetable stand) → Yes

• Umbrella or menu board outside → Yes

Required documents:

• City application form

• Floor plan/site plan with measurements

• Description of furniture (tables, chairs, umbrellas, type)

• Usage times (daily hours)

• Business registration copy

• Proof of liability insurance

General rules (may vary by city):

• Pedestrian space: 1.5–2 m must remain free

• Usage hours: usually until 22:00

• Outdoor music/speakers: usually prohibited

• Permanent fixtures (wooden platforms): require additional building permit

Annual fees (per m²):

• Small towns: €5–10

• Medium cities: €10–20

• Large cities (Berlin, Hamburg): €25–60

Example: 6 tables × 4 m² = 24 m² → Berlin: 24 × €40 = €960/year

Consequences without permit:

• Warning from Ordnungsamt

• Fine up to €5,000

• Removal of furniture at your expense

• Temporary ban on applications