SDOT Temporary Outdoor Cafe, Merchandise Display, and Vending Permits
Pioneer Square Business Stakeholders-

SDOT is now offering streamlined, free temporary permits for outdoor cafes, retail merchandise displays, food trucks, and vending carts that are valid for up to 6 months:

  • A temporary outdoor café permit allows restaurant service and outdoor seating on the sidewalk or in curb space parking areas. The appropriate license from Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board is required to serve alcohol.

  • A temporary merchandise display permit allows a retail business to expand their operations outside into the sidewalk or in curb space parking areas (note: this permit allows sales to occur outside).

  • A temporary vending permit allows vending of food flowers, or publications on the sidewalk or in curb space parking areas from a truck or cart.
How to Apply

You can apply for these permits online through the Seattle Services Portal. Use the below button to get started. After creating a new account or logging into your existing account, you will need to do the following:

  • Under Create New select "Permits-Street Use"

  • Navigate to and select the "Short Term Use" and "Temporary Activation" record type

  • In "Project Name" field, put: "Safe Starts Temporary Permit". This will help us expedite your application. In the "Project and Location Description" please provide a detailed description of your planned use, including business hours and if you plan to serve alcohol (if you are proposing a café).

  • When you submit your application, you will need to submit only one (1) of the following:
  • a site plan (template available here) for your proposed temporary café, display, or vending site; or
  • 3 photos illustrating the location of your proposed temporary café, display, or vending site.

More tips for completing the application can be found on SDOT's temporary outdoor cafe, merchandise display, and vending permits web page. If you have questions about the application process, you may contact SDOT's Public Space Management team at 206-684-7623 or publicspace@seattlegov.
Sincerely,

The Alliance Team

ALLIANCE FOR PIONEER SQUARE