Notice: Outdoor Dining on Public Sidewalks
Mayor Tim Keller recently announced that the City of Albuquerque will delay the enforcement of a specific section of the Integrated Development Ordinance (IDO) as it relates to outdoor dining on public sidewalks.
Section 14-16-4-3 (F)( 14 )(b) of the IDO requires restaurants offering outdoor sidewalk dining to erect a barrier around any outdoor dining area. However, recognizing that this requirement hampers business opportunities and will likely be changed in the near future, the Mayor has instructed the Code Enforcement Division to forego enforcement of this rule for area businesses offering this type of service.
While the Mayor believes that the current ordinance is an unnecessary obstacle for local businesses that offer great outdoor seating, it is important to note that the City still requires that participating businesses obtain a revocable permit for encroachment into the right-of-way. Also, the City's delayed enforcement does not override requirements of the State of New Mexico Alcohol & Gaming Division requiring a divider when businesses serve alcoholic beverages. Business owners are reminded to ensure that they are in compliance with all other legal requirements.
If you have any questions concerning this matter, please feel free to contact our Planning Department at 505-924-3860.
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