Outdoor Dining

Select Board Outdoor Dining Policy

The expansion of outdoor dining in Needham was born out of a desire to support local restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide the community with options for safe dining. Since then, the business community and residents have expressed a strong interest in allowing outdoor dining to remain beyond the pandemic. The Select Board is currently considering a policy to outline what is required of restaurants and how the Board will review and approve applications for outdoor dining on public property. 

On October 25, 2021 Special Town Meeting approved a zoning change to allow outdoor dining in public parking spaces. The Select Board's policy will guide the decision-making around outdoor dining applications.  

2022 Outdoor Dining - Important Updates 


Outdoor Dining Presentation

Outdoor Dining Consumer Fact Sheet

Office on Disability Accessibility Info for Outdoor Dining

Safety Considerations for Outdoor Dining


Additional Information

Outdoor Dining Application

Outdoor Dining Process Guidelines and checklist

 10.20.21 - Select Board Outdoor Dining Licensing Policy

09.14.21 - Memo to the Select Board re: Outdoor Dining          

09.14.21 - Presentation to the Select Board                              

09.14.21 - DRAFT Applicant Checklist