Al fresco dining is now a permanent fixture in New Jersey’s dining establishments, pubs, and craft breweries

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed permanent expansions to the state’s outdoor dining laws, originally established during the pandemic. These changes allow restaurants, bars, and breweries to use tents, canopies, and umbrellas permanently for outdoor dining. The outdoor seating areas must still comply with local health and safety regulations despite the statewide rules. Craft brewers are particularly pleased with the new rules, as they expand opportunities for selling alcohol for immediate consumption. Scott Wells, a board member at the Brewers Guild of New Jersey, believes that making outdoor seating areas a permanent option aligns with the industry’s goal of providing patrons with the hospitality experiences they desire. The temporary permits issued in February 2021 can now be turned into permanent, renewable ones with the state Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control, with establishments required to renew their permits annually under the new law. Governor Phil Murphy stated that outdoor dining has been successful for both business owners and patrons and is excited to see it become a permanent fixture in the Garden State.

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