Erin Lanahan 
While outdoor dining isn’t new to Hoboken, it became more popular after the COVID-19 pandemic forced businesses to get creative and provide more dining options. The governor granted special permissions in 2021 to allow restaurants to expand services outside, and that was set to expire this year. Now, Governor Phil Murphy has made outdoor dining permanent for businesses in New Jersey, thanks to a new bill signed into law on November 25th, 2024. Here’s what this new outdoor dining law means for Hoboken + Jersey City restaurants and bars.
What’s The New Law?
In February 2021, restaurants across New Jersey were authorized to use different fixtures, like tents, canopies, umbrellas, tables, and chairs for outdoor dining. Restaurants got creative with how they could serve guests while keeping everyone safe during the pandemic. Diners were able to enjoy a meal in igloos, share a drink in heated tents, and split desserts in giant bubbles.
The new legislation was signed into law on November 25th, 2024, and takes effect immediately. It allows holders of temporary expansion permits issued by the State Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) to convert the temporary permit into a permanent permit. The permit will be renewable annually and is issued with the approval of local officials, per the state. The governor signed the bill into law just five days before it was supposed to expire.
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“Outdoor dining has proven to be an incredibly successful venture over the past four years, benefiting business owners and patrons alike,” Governor Murphy shared via a statement. “I’m proud to continue this popular measure and look forward to seeing our restaurant industry continue to grow.”
“Hudson County embodies the diversity and vibrancy that makes New Jersey unique. By allowing restaurants to expand their outdoor dining options permanently, this legislation will provide critical support to local businesses, creating new opportunities for growth and connection,” said Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato, one of the primary sponsors of the bill. “It’s not just about financial benefits—it’s about fostering community, enhancing the dining experience, and ensuring these establishments continue to thrive.”
Has There Been Pushback Before?
Outdoor dining has its challenges. Parklets, or the sidewalk extension providing more space for restaurants and bars, were one of the tools businesses used to continue serving guests throughout the pandemic. The parklets stuck around when COVID restrictions were lifted, but concerns about the number of rats in Hoboken and the lack of street parking available led to the City pausing applications for new outdoor structures.
Late Councilwoman Jen Giattino (6th Ward) released a statement about the parklets back in 2023, saying, “Not allowing new parklets is one of many tools we need to reduce food sources to combat our rat crisis in Hoboken and is overwhelmingly supported by residents. We have all seen photos, showing rodents living in the parklets, and we have all seen photos of what was under the parklets that were removed.”
After a back-and-forth with the City Council, the mayor, and restaurant owners, Hoboken decided to pause all applications for new parklets. The Council approved a five-month moratorium on new parklets in November 2023, which expired on March 31st, 2024. This spring, businesses in Hoboken looking to expand their outdoor service were allowed to apply for a parklet license again.
Dear Maud on First Street in Hoboken applied to have a new parklet, planned to be 42 feet long, seven feet wide, and nine feet tall, installed outside the restaurant in April of 2024. Neighbors complained about the possible addition of a parklet, saying they didn’t want rowdy crowds making noise late at night, per TapInto Hoboken. It’s not clear if the restaurant was approved to construct the outdoor dining space over the summer.
The Hoboken Girl reached out to the Hoboken mayor’s office and this article will be updated with any other details.
What Are People Saying About The New Law?
Alex Mendelsohn, one of the owners of Orale on Grove Street in Jersey City, shared his excitement about the new legislation with The Hoboken Girl. “For us at Orale, our parklet has become a lively extension of the restaurant, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere that our guests love…It is a relief to know that it will be a permanent adjustment,” Alex said.
“We’re optimistic that this bill will provide more opportunities for local businesses to thrive while adding to Jersey City’s charm as a dining destination. Outdoor dining has become such an integral part of the experience, and having it as a permanent option gives us the ability to plan ahead and continue creating memorable moments for our guests,” Alex said.
The Hoboken Girl has reached out to other local businesses about the new law this article will be updated with any further comments.
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How Do Business Owners Apply For The Outdoor Dining License?
For Hoboken restaurant owners, applications for new outdoor dining spaces and renewals can be found on the City’s website. For Jersey City restaurant owners, applications for an outdoor dining license can be found on the Jersey City website.
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