Outdoor dining on city land
Want to offer your customers outdoor dining? All restaurants wishing to serve alcoholic beverages outdoors need an outdoor dining permit. Some locations can use their own property, but all can apply for use of city land. Operators not selling alcoholic beverages may place tables and chairs against the building wall without further permits.
What is city land?
All areas outside private lots are considered city land, including sidewalks, gardens, squares and streets.
Which permit do I need?
- Business license with outdoor dining permission
- Use of city land
How do I apply?
1. Application
2. Drawing
Drawing of outdoor dining area
Upload a drawing of the outdoor area with the application on My Pages. The drawing must show all dimensions, number of tables and chairs. An architect-made drawing is not required.
3. Approval process
Approval process for city land use application
The Office of Transport and Urban Design reviews the drawing. If approved, the operator receives a contract for electronic signature.
4. Business license
Business license with outdoor dining permission
After Urban Design approves the application, send the signed contract to the district commissioner with the drawing. The district commissioner initiates a review process. If no objections are received, they issue a business license with outdoor dining permission. Then you may begin outdoor service.
- Operators applying for a business license for the first time must specifically request outdoor dining permission.
- Operators with a valid license not covering outdoor dining must apply for a license amendment to include it.
Frequently asked questions
How will I be contacted?
Contact regarding city land use applications is made via email. You can track your license amendment application with the District Commissioner on My Pages at island.is.
Who is responsible for keeping the outdoor area clean and tidy?
The contract's responsible party is in charge of this.
What if I want to increase the allowed number of guests?
To increase the allowed number of guests, apply for a building permit from the building inspector. Read more.
How late can I serve outdoors?
Opening hours depend on planning and are stated on the business license.
Can I place tables and chairs outside the designated area?
No. Access for emergency responders must be ensured. Table and chair placement is determined accordingly. The outdoor area drawing shows the approved setup. The police monitor compliance.
Can I use speakers?
The public health authority assesses this case-by-case, considering neighborhood impact. Noise limits are not measured in decibels, but by whether the noise is disruptive.
Why isn't there one rule for everyone?
All permits are issued after thorough review of location and neighborhood impact. Some locations allow for longer hours, more seating, and more noise, all due to location and environment.
What happens if I ignore City instructions or contract terms?
Reykjavík City can terminate the contract with 30 days' notice. The district commissioner is informed and the business license with outdoor dining permission is revoked.