Can I Put Tables and Chairs Outside My Cafe

Outdoor seating is a welcome feature for many cafés. Whether it’s a sunny day or a crisp morning with blankets and coffee, pavement seating helps create an atmosphere, increases capacity, and attracts passing foot traffic. However, placing tables and chairs outside your café is not simply a case of moving furniture onto the pavement. There are clear rules, permissions and responsibilities involved.

Knowing the Space

The first step is to establish ownership of the area outside your café. If your building opens onto a public pavement or highway, you will almost certainly need permission from your local council. If the land is privately owned, such as a forecourt or terrace, the process may be more straightforward but could still involve planning or landlord consent.

Pavement Licence Requirements

To use public space for tables and chairs, you must apply for a pavement licence through your local authority. This licence grants temporary use of public land for outdoor trading. Key details include:

Applications are made via your local council’s website
Most licences involve a small fee, typically between £100 and £350
A site plan and description of the furniture are often required
Licences are usually valid for up to a year and can be renewed

Local requirements vary slightly, so check your council’s dedicated pages for “pavement seating”, “street café licence” or similar terms.

Meeting Council Conditions

To be granted a licence, your setup must not obstruct the pavement or inconvenience pedestrians. Councils usually require:

Adequate space for foot traffic, including wheelchairs and prams
Stable, good-quality café furniture suitable for outdoor use
Defined boundaries for your outdoor area
Consideration of noise, especially in residential areas
Clear operating hours for the outdoor area

Furniture should be removed or secured after hours if required by the council.

Private Land Considerations

If your café has private outdoor space, such as a courtyard or patio, you may not need a pavement licence. However, you should:

Confirm land ownership or speak with your landlord
Check for planning restrictions, especially in conservation areas
Comply with any lease terms regarding external alterations

Even without a licence, safety, accessibility, and public liability still matter.

Other Legal Points

Some cafés may also need to review their existing alcohol licence to ensure it covers outdoor consumption. Public liability insurance is also essential, often with minimum cover of £5 million. Local councils may request proof as part of the application process.

You will also need to keep your outdoor area clean, remove litter and be considerate of neighbours and other nearby businesses.

Choosing the Right Cafe Furniture

Outdoor commercial furniture must be robust, weather-resistant and easy to clean. At BE Furniture Sales, we stock a wide range of café tables and café chairs ideal for outdoor use. Popular options include:

Stackable chairs and foldable tables are ideal for easy setup and storage, especially where furniture must be cleared daily.

Pavement Appeal

A well-styled outdoor seating area invites passing trade and improves visibility. Consider:

Planters or low barriers to mark your café’s boundary
Chalkboard menus with offers or seasonal dishes
Branded umbrellas or covers for sun and light rain
Cushions or throws for colder days

Keep the area tidy and furniture aligned to create a welcoming impression.

Supporting Your Café’s Growth

Outdoor seating can significantly improve both the ambience and income of a café. With the correct permissions, quality furniture and thoughtful presentation, it becomes a valuable extension of your indoor space.

Explore our full range of café tables and chairs at BE Furniture Sales, or speak with our team for help finding practical, stylish solutions that meet council guidelines and customer expectations.