Sidewalk Cafe Permit in Washington: Cost, Steps & How to File

If you're planning to get a sidewalk cafe permit in Washington, the process is more paperwork than it needs to be — but it's paperwork with a predictable pattern. This guide walks through the Washington steps in plain English, with real fee amounts and the specific state office to file with.

Steps to get a sidewalk cafe permit in Washington

1. Step 1: Verify the sidewalk width allows the required ADA clearance (usually 4 or 5 feet clear pedestrian path after tables)
2. Step 2: Get a site plan drawn showing tables, chairs, barriers, and clear-path dimensions
3. Step 3: Get landlord consent for the use of the sidewalk frontage
4. Step 4: Apply at the city's public works or planning department
5. Step 5: Provide proof of general liability insurance naming the city as additional insured (usually $1M-$2M)
6. Step 6: Pay a per-square-foot annual fee for the public right-of-way use

Required documents

• Site plan
• Landlord letter
• Certificate of insurance naming city as additional insured
• Photos of proposed layout

Where to file in Washington

• Business filings: https://ccfs.sos.wa.gov
• Secretary of State: https://www.sos.wa.gov
• Tax authority: https://dor.wa.gov
• Labor/workforce: https://esd.wa.gov

Related permits in Washington

Frequently asked questions

This page reflects general Washington filing rules as of 2026. Fees and processing times change; verify the current amounts with the linked state agency before filing.