Millman Introduces Bill to Limit Operation of Backyard and Rooftop Bars

June 17, 2010

Albany – Assemblywoman Joan L. Millman introduced legislation that would require a permit for a restaurant or bar to serve alcohol in a rear yard or rooftop. Specifically, Assembly Bill A.11288 would limit the hours during which an establishment serving alcohol could operate in a rear yard or rooftop until 10:00 PM on Sunday through Thursday evenings and 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday evenings. Although sidewalk cafes must get approval from the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs, there is no such oversight of backyard and rooftop use.

“This legislation seeks to give community boards and local residents more input in their own neighborhoods,” said Millman. “Restaurants and bars would be allowed to continue using backyard and rooftop spaces after complying with the reasonable guidelines set forth in this bill. In response to numerous complaints from constituents, I crafted this legislation to balance the needs of local residents with the objectives of neighborhood businesses.”

Currently, A.11288 has been referred to the Assembly Committee for Economic Development.

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