DC Streatery Design Permits: Complete Guide to DDOT's Permanent Program
Deadline Alert: Temporary permits expire November 30, 2025. Apply now.
As of December 1, 2025, DC's temporary streatery program officially ends. That means if your restaurant currently has outdoor dining structures in parking lanes, sidewalks, or alleys—you’ll need a brand-new permit from the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) to stay compliant.
This blog breaks it all down: what a streatery permit is, why it’s complicated, and how M.C.G. helps you avoid costly delays and stay open.
What is a Streatery Permit, Anyway?
A Streatery Design Permit is required for any restaurant that wants to operate an outdoor dining structure in public space. This includes:
Parking lanes
Travel lanes
Sidewalks
Alleys
The permit ensures your setup is safe, ADA-accessible, structurally sound, and aligned with DC’s new permanent outdoor dining rules.
Key Requirements Include:
ADA accessibility and clear pedestrian pathways
Safety barriers and structural integrity
Fire safety and emergency access approvals
Building permits (if making structural changes)
Annual occupancy fees (~$20 per sq ft)
Important Date: 🗓️ November 30, 2025 – All temporary COVID-era streatery permits expire
New Rules Starting December 1, 2025
DC is shifting to a permanent streatery program with much stricter standards than during COVID.
Here’s what’s changed:
✅ Temporary permits expire
✅ New design and construction standards apply
✅ All permits now require multi-agency approval (DDOT, DOB, FEMS, possibly ANC)
✅ Higher costs: public space fees + construction + agency permits
✅ Longer review timelines (2–3+ months)
Pro tip: Start now. Permits can take up to 6 months to approve—don’t risk service interruption.
Why It’s Not a DIY Process: Agencies Involved
To get a Streatery Permit, you’ll need approvals from multiple agencies:
DDOT: Design permit, accessibility, safety barriers
DOB: Building permits, structural compliance
FEMS: Fire safety and emergency access
DCRA: Business license & occupancy status
ANC: In some cases, community notification & public comment
One mistake can delay your project for months.
Design Standards: What You Need to Comply With
Think of the new program as "temporary no longer allowed." Everything must now meet real construction codes:
You’ll need to show:
ADA-accessible seating and pathways
Safe, anchored, weather-resistant construction
Fire-resistant materials and emergency exits
Proper drainage (no flooding!) and utilities
Barriers that protect diners from traffic
If your streatery uses plywood or pop-up tents—it likely won’t pass under the new rules.
Timeline & Cost Breakdown
Timeline:
Application Prep: 2–4 weeks
DDOT Review: 2–3+ months
Construction: 2–6 weeks
Total: 4–6 months (or more for complex projects)
Fees:
Design Permit (DDOT): $260
Public Space Fee: ~$20/sq ft annually
Building Permits: $200–$500+
Construction: $10K–$50K+
Example: A 100 sq ft streatery will cost ~$2,260/year in permit fees + construction costs
Why Restaurants Choose M.C.G.
You’re a chef, not a permit wrangler. That’s where we come in.
Common pitfalls we help you avoid:
Incomplete applications = rejected
Missed inspections = delays
Non-compliant structures = denied permits
Lack of agency coordination = months of lost revenue
What M.C.G. Provides:
25+ years of DC permitting experience
Principal-led projects with direct access to Raushan Murshid
Multi-agency coordination handled for you
Barrier installations, design guidance, and more
We handle the complexity. You serve your guests.
Our Process: Simple, Strategic, Proven
Phase 1: Feasibility & Compliance
Assess your current setup or new design
Identify all required approvals and costs
Review ADA and structural requirements
Phase 2: Application Submission
Prepare and submit DDOT Streatery Design Permit
Coordinate architectural drawings (if needed)
Handle all revisions, questions, and follow-ups
Phase 3: Multi-Agency Coordination
Secure DOB, FEMS, electrical, and ANC approvals
Schedule safety barrier delivery/installation
Phase 4: Ongoing Support
Annual renewals
Future expansions/modifications
Monitoring for code updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the temporary program end?
A: November 30, 2025. You must apply for the permanent program to continue using your outdoor space.
Q: How long does it take to get approved?
A: Expect 4–6 months total.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Permit fees + ~$20/sq ft annually + construction costs ($10K–$50K+).
Q: Can I keep my current streatery?
A: Only if it meets new standards. Most temporary structures won’t.
Q: Do I need an architect?
A: Possibly—DDOT may require stamped plans for larger or structural builds.
Ready to Stay Compliant and Keep Serving?
Don't let red tape shut down your outdoor dining. M.C.G. helps you navigate DC's permitting process smoothly and quickly.
📞 Call (202) 729-8272
✉️ Email: sayhello@mcgpermits.com
🌐 Visit: www.mcgpermits.com
Schedule your free consultation today and let's make your streatery permanent.
