To provide safer dining options for residents and support the restaurant community during the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Worcester has implemented a Temporary Outdoor Dining Program. The Temporary Outdoor Dining program establishes an expedited permitting process through which restaurants are able to offer expanded outdoor dining options.
Under the program, normal requirements, zoning and licensing requirements related to parking, location of outdoor dining areas and size of outdoor dining areas are relaxed, allowing considerable flexibility for restaurants to establish outdoor dining areas on a temporary basis during the pandemic. There is no fee to apply for a temporary outdoor dining extension.
Restaurants participating in the Temporary Outdoor Dining program must comply with rules established by the License Commission and all guidelines and protocols of the Commonwealth. Building code, fire code and accessibility requirements apply.
Licenses granted under the program are issued under the authorization of COVID-19 Executive Orders issued by the Governor and the City Manager. All Temporary Outdoor Dining licenses will terminate 60 days following the end of the Governor's declared State of Emergency, or earlier if specified on the license.
As of 5/29/2024, it is unlawful to manufacture and/or sell food or beverages containing hemp derived CBD and/or THC on Licensed Premises. This advisory does not apply to marijuana products manufactured under the jurisdiction of the Cannabis Control Commission. Learn More
As of 4/30/2024, ABCC approval is no longer required for amendments to add outdoor alcoholic beverage table service areas. Licensees should contact the License Commission with any questions and apply directly with us.
As of 4/30/2024, on-premise alcoholic beverage licensees licensed for the sale of all alcoholic beverages, distilled spirits or cordials/liqueurs may sell mixed drinks permitted under their type and category of license for off-premises consumption. Learn More
As of 4/1/2023, all outdoor dining installations located on the public sidewalk require an annual application and permit from DPW&P which is Available Online.
For more information email OutdoorDining@worcesterma.gov (preferred) or call 508-799-1400 x31440.
Because expanded outdoor dining areas have increased potential for impacting neighbors, it is especially important that restaurants carefully monitor and manage their Temporary Outdoor Dining areas.
Adherence to operating requirements and safety standards is an important component of the Temporary Outdoor Dining Program. To report a concern regarding the operation of a Temporary Outdoor Dining installation, please contact License Commission staff at License@worcesterma.gov.
License Commission
25 Meade Street
2nd Floor
Worcester, MA 01610
Phone: 508-799-1198 x33009
Fax: 508-799-8544
Email Us
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
