New Regulations Bring an End to Blighted Dining Sheds in NYC
Introduction:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, dining sheds became a common sight in New York City as restaurants sought to provide outdoor seating options. However, strict new regulations have led to the closure of thousands of these sheds, as restaurant owners find them to be more trouble than they’re worth.
The Costly Regulations:
Dubbed “Dining Out NYC,” the new regulations went into effect on August 3rd. Restaurant owners are now required to pay a four-year licensing fee of $1,050 to $2,100, as well as an annual fee based on the size of their sidewalk café. Additionally, establishments located below 125th Street in Manhattan face even higher fees.
Challenges for Restaurant Owners:
The regulations also present several challenges for restaurant owners. They must now be able to store the sheds elsewhere from December to April, ensure ADA-compliant setups, and keep the sheds at least 15 feet from fire hydrants and trees. These requirements, along with others, have led many owners to conclude that the sheds are not worth the cost and hassle.
Mixed Reactions from Restaurant Owners:
Maureen Donohue, owner of Donohue’s Steakhouse on the Upper East Side, recently removed her dining sheds. While they once accounted for 35% of her revenue, she found that the cost of maintaining them outweighed the benefits. She is not alone in this sentiment, as fewer restaurants applied for permits before the deadline compared to previous months.
Concerns about Demolition Costs:
Sam, the morning manager of the Qahwah House café in Brooklyn, shared his perspective on the demolition process. While he couldn’t provide specific numbers, he emphasized that the cost of taking down the sheds is not worth it. According to Hell Gate, the cost of demolishing existing structures can amount to thousands of dollars.
The Impact of the Pandemic-Era Sheds:
At the height of the Open Restaurants program during the pandemic, there were approximately 13,000 dining shed setups. These sheds were erected without a formal application or approval process. Some residents have expressed concerns about quality-of-life issues, such as rats, noisy patrons, and makeshift shacks that blighted the streets.
New Rules for a Better Future:
The new regulations were voted on by the City Council to address these quality-of-life issues and create a more uniform program for outdoor dining. The goal is to consider the unique circumstances of each borough and neighborhood. While some restaurant owners are hiring architects to comply with the new rules, others find the cost increase worth the extra seating capacity.
Safety Concerns and Future Expectations:
Despite the benefits of outdoor dining, some restaurant owners and residents have voiced concerns about the new regulations. Maureen Donohue believes that the enclosed sheds were safer for patrons, as they provided more protection from flying debris. Council Member Keith Powers acknowledges the benefits of outdoor dining but emphasizes the need for a proper approval process.
Conclusion:
The blighted dining sheds that became a common sight during the pandemic are now facing strict new regulations that have led to their closure. While some restaurant owners find the sheds to be more trouble than they’re worth, others are willing to comply with the new rules. The future of outdoor dining in NYC remains uncertain, as officials work towards finding the right balance between regulation and expansion opportunities for businesses.
