Governor Phil Murphy signed S3608/A4866 into law today, cementing outdoor dining permissions as a permanent feature for New Jersey restaurants and certain alcoholic beverage retailers and manufacturers. Originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, these permissions were set to expire on November 30, but will now continue indefinitely, providing businesses with greater opportunities to expand into designated outdoor spaces.
“Outdoor dining has proven to be an incredibly successful venture over the past four years, benefiting business owners and patrons alike,” said Governor Murphy. “I’m proud to continue this popular measure and look forward to seeing our restaurant industry continue to grow.”
The new law ensures that establishments can permanently utilize outdoor fixtures such as tents, canopies, umbrellas, tables, and chairs for dining and beverage service. For those holding temporary expansion permits issued by the New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), the law allows these permits to be converted into permanent, renewable permits, subject to local approval.
The legislation was championed by a bipartisan group of sponsors, including Senator Paul A. Sarlo, Senator Vincent J. Polistina, Assemblyman Roy Freiman, Assemblywoman Mitchelle Drulis, and Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato. Their efforts ensured the continuation of this initiative, which has become a hallmark of New Jersey’s food and beverage scene.