Open Storefronts is a temporary program that allows ground-floor storefront businesses to conduct retail activity on sidewalks directly in front of their business. Open Storefront sites can operate from October 30, 2020 to September 30, 2021.

If you are a store owner, you must apply for Open Storefronts authorization to sell goods or offer services to customers on sidewalks or eligible roadways.

Authorized businesses that display merchandise or have a Stoop Line Stand License do not need to apply to the Open Storefronts program to conduct sales of existing eligible merchandise.

Learn more about Open Storefronts.

Eligible businesses can set up their Open Storefront site on a sidewalk in front of their business.

To be eligible to participate in Open Storefronts, your business must:

  • Be one of the following:
    • Retail trade store, such as a clothing or equipment store
    • Retail food store
    • Service provider business, such as a dry cleaner, laundromat, or personal care service provider
  • ​Sell or provide services predominantly to the general public
  • Be located on the ground floor
  • Be directly accessible from the street and have store frontage on the sidewalk
  • Comply with all program requirements

Get Open Storefronts Program guidelines.

To speed up the approval process, the City is allowing retail stores and businesses providing services to self-certify that they meet the Open Storefront program requirements.

You will need to provide:

  • Business name, Legal Business Name, and Doing Business As (DBA) Name
  • Business address and contact information
  • Illustrative diagram showing dimensions of sidewalk and/or roadway retail areas, objects placed on sidewalk, clear path for pedestrians, and other siting criteria comply with program guidelines

When you apply, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to all applicable terms and conditions and all applicable laws and guidance.

Learn more and apply for the Open Storefronts program.

If you are a retail store owner and have questions about the Open Storefront program, self-certification, or program requirements, you can get help online or by phone.

Online

Get help with the Open Storefronts Program.

By Phone

  • Agency: Small Business Services
  • Division: NYC Business Restart Hotline
  • Phone Number: (888) 727-4692
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM

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