By Emily Koller
June 2015

The best city streets serve many uses. Beyond circulation for cars and people, streets should provide a public space for community. Sidewalks in downtown provide this space offering a place to pass time, watch people, meet friends, dine and be entertained. Good streets and other public spaces should facilitate these activities. One way to help encourage life on the street is through an ordinance that will permit businesses to place tables and seating on the sidewalk.

Allowing outdoor café style seating is typically done through a license agreement with the city. This is because the tables, chairs and any decorative elements are considered private improvements in the public right-of-way.   Both McKinney and Waxahachie have programs. Another good example is the the Northgate district in College Station. 

Links to resources:
Waxahachie Ordinance and Permit Application
McKinney License Agreement
Northgate Ordinance