Outdoor Seating Program

Sidewalk Cafe:

An extension of an eating or drinking place located on a public sidewalk that provides restaurant service. 

How to apply for a Sidewalk Cafe:

  • Head over to our online permitting system, CompassKC to create an account.
  • Once logged in, search for "Sidewalk Cafe" permit, select apply, and fill out the requested information.
  • Once submitted, permit staff will review and notify you of the status of your permit within a few business days.

Street Cafe: 

An outdoor dining facility located within areas used for on-street parking that serves as an extension of an eating or drinking place.

How to apply for a Street Cafe:

  • Head over to our online permitting system, CompassKC to create an account.
  • Once logged in, search for "Street Cafe" permit, select apply, and fill out the requested information.
  • Once submitted, permit staff will review and notify you of the status of your permit within a few business days.

Parklet:

An outdoor facility located in City right-of-way either within the sidewalk, on-street parking areas, or other unutilized spaces and designated as public space.

How to apply for a Parklet:

For a temporary parklet permit, please use the "Street Cafe" permit in CompassKC.

Parking Lot Dining Space:

An extension of a bar or restaurant in a private parking lot that provides restaurant or beverage service.

How to apply for Parking Lot Dining Space: 

Apply by downloading, filling out and emailing the Parking Lot Dining Application Form to pod@kcmo.org.

What does the temporary permitting do?

The temporary permitting eases requirements for the time period of May 21, 2020- December 31, 2021 to make it easier for restaurants and businesses to apply:

  • Permit fee waived
  • Signature requirement waived
  • Maintenance agreement waived
  • No bond deposit required
  • No parking space limit

Design Guidance for Sidewalk Cafes, Street Cafes and Parklets: 

Must haves:

  • ADA access down, up, and within the sidewalk cafe, street cafe, or parklet area
    • For example, a ramp with a no-skid, stable surface can be used
    • View the ADA ramp guideline document from KCMO's ADA Compliance Office for examples on how to build an accesible ramp
  • Maintain the pedestrian access route: at least five-foot wide sidewalk clearance at all points
  • A detectable barrier that meets ADA requirements and provides effective safety measures 
  • Retro-reflective strip placed on all sides abutting traffic
  • Suggested one-foot buffer around perimeter of install
  • Certificate of insurance and indemnification agreement
    • Commonly known as the "Accord Form"
    • The certificate holder MUST BE named: Kansas City, Missouri 

A street cafe or parklet will not be allowed:

  • In ADA/accessible parking spots
  • On a corridor with speeds greater than 30 mph
For Parking Lot Dining Spaces, please reach out to City Planning and Development: 

Email the Planner of the Day.

To report an issue with a sidewalk café, street café, parklet, or parking lot dining space, please contact 311.