Expected Snowstorm to Temporarily Suspend Outdoor Dining, Starting Wednesday

By Yehudit Garmaise

     After declaring a “snow alert” for Wednesday at 2pm, the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) said that that outdoor dining would have to be suspended at least until Thursday night, or even Friday, so that removing what may be up to eight inches of snow from outdoor spaces will be easier and less obstructed.

  Although restauranteurs can keep their outdoor dining setups throughout the snowstorm, the DSNY told all restaurant owners that they are required to put away their electrical heaters, to secure roadway tables and chairs, and to remove overhead coverings

    The temporary outdoor dining suspension comes just two days after indoor dining was banned in the city due to rising COVID positivity and hospitalization rates. 

   Restaurant pick-up and delivery are still allowed.

   “While the DSNY is expecting a significant snowfall, its workers and equipment are prepared,” says the department’s website, which says salt spreaders, snowplows, and “brine trucks” that apply liquid salt to some roads before the snow even falls are “ready to go.” 

    In addition to suspending outdoor dining to help with the DSNY’s snow clearing efforts, the Sanitation Department also canceled alternate side parking for Wednesday and Thursday.