Outdoor dining on city land
As summer rapidly approaches, business operators should check whether their business licenses include permission for outdoor dining.
All restaurants wishing to serve alcoholic beverages in outdoor areas must have outdoor dining authorization included in their business license. Some establishments can use their own lots, while all have the option to apply for use of city land. Businesses that don't sell alcoholic beverages are permitted to place tables and chairs against their building facade without additional permits.
Application process
Applications for city land use must be submitted through Reykjavík City's My Pages. A drawing of the outdoor area must be uploaded with the application. The drawing must show all dimensions, number of tables and chairs.
If the transportation and urban design office approves the drawing, a contract will be sent to the business operator for e-signing. The business operator must then submit the signed contract along with the drawing to the District Commissioner of Greater Reykjavík with an application to modify their business license. If no objections are received, the District Commissioner will issue a business license with outdoor dining authorization.