How to Expand Dining Outside Effectively and Legally

"CLEVELAND - YOU GOTTA BE TOUGH." It's a popular T-shirt slogan in the city that "rocks" - and a claim to fame that is earned, in part, by its long, harsh winters.

In 2015, it seemed like the cold and snow would never end. If you live in the Northeast or Midwest you - and your guests - were more than ready for warm weather and an opportunity to dine al fresco.

The reasons to expand your dining area beyond your four walls go beyond giving sunshine-starved patrons a welcome breath of fresh air. Outdoor seating can impart an elegant bistro vibe to a small cafe concept. It can certainly take advantage of a beautiful or interesting view, if your restaurant is located in a scenic setting.

Moreover, it can be a form of advertising.

Arthur Gordon, owner of the 40-year-old landmark Irregardless Cafe of Raleigh, North Carolina, included several tables outside his restaurant to capture the attention of passing traffic on Morgan Street and tell prospective guests, "This is a restaurant," he said. Outdoor seating can drive business; not only by increasing the number of covers you can serve, but by attracting patronage.

Whatever your reason for serving guests on the sidewalk or patio, outdoor seating is not simply an annex of your dining area. Like everything else in your restaurant, there are operational - and even legal - details to consider.