Sidewalk Use Permit
Application Checklist:
A Sidewalk Use Permit applies if you would like to use a portion of a public sidewalk for a café, eating area, bicycle rack, temporary display, or other purpose that does not involve the permanent vacation of any part of the street. See UDC Section 50‐37.12 for more information.
Starting the Application Process
Your Application
- Visit www.duluthmn.gov/eplace to submit your application.
- Click on “Apply” and search for your application type. (You will need to sign in to the system, or create a new account if you do not already have one.)
- Follow the prompts to fill in information. Required information is indicated with an asterisk.
- On the attachments page, upload the following:
- Sidewalk Use Agreement (archived)
- Certificate of Insurance meeting requirements specified in Sidewalk Use Agreement
- Additionally, if this is a new Sidewalk Use Permit (or a renewal later than 30 days after expiration of a previous Permit), please submit the following:
- A map or diagram showing the proposed use area, and nearby drive aisles, loading zones, fire lanes, parking lots, building entrances, street trees, and street furniture. Note the following criteria:
- Must not encroach into drive aisles, loading zones, fire lanes, or parking lots
- Must not be in the area located between the street curb and building entrance
- Must be set back at least 7’ from curb and 6’ from meters, trees, benches, etc.
- Shall be only on sidewalk areas adjacent to applicant’s property
- A map or diagram showing the proposed use area, and nearby drive aisles, loading zones, fire lanes, parking lots, building entrances, street trees, and street furniture. Note the following criteria:
- After your application is complete, click “Add to Cart” for the fee listed, and pay the fee. Applications without a fee will not be reviewed or accepted.
After Submitting Your Application
- Determination of Completeness. Within 15 business days of your application, you should expect to:
- Receive notification on whether the application is incomplete, with details on further information to submit.
- Land Use Supervisor Decision.
- The Land Use Supervisor will review the application and make a decision to adopt, adopt with modifications, or deny the application. If approved, you will receive an Action Letter documenting approval.
Sidewalk Use Permits remain in effect for one year. To continue use of the sidewalk after that year, you will need to submit another application.
Please note: Any sidewalk use involving alcohol may require a new liquor license or an expansion of the existing liquor license. Please call the City Clerk at 730‐5500.
