Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and 2nd District Councilman Wes Rogers have announced a major move to support small businesses by eliminating annual permit fees for outdoor dining spaces. The change, made official through the recent passage of Ordinance No. 250673, removes the financial burden for restaurants wanting to operate sidewalk cafes, parklets, or street cafes.
The moratorium on fees is already in effect and will continue until September 1, 2028. The now-waived fees—which previously totaled $850 annually for both permit and application—had long been seen as a hurdle for many restaurants and cafes, especially small or minority-owned establishments hoping to add outdoor seating options.
“Permit fees can become barriers that prevent our most innovative small business owners from participating in programs that could help them thrive,” said Mayor Lucas. “The moratorium on annual permit fees ensures that all entrepreneurs have the same opportunities to create engaging outdoor spaces. We’re continuing to support the diverse restaurant culture that makes Kansas City special.”
Backed by Successful Grant Program
The fee elimination builds on the city’s Outdoor Dining Enhancements grant program, which has already invested $300,000 across 32 restaurants throughout Kansas City. City leaders say this initiative, along with the new ordinance, is designed to promote growth among restaurants and increase vibrancy in neighborhoods across the metro area.
“This ordinance will help our restaurants make money,” said Councilman Rogers. “It will generate new tax revenue for our city, and it will create more vibrant neighborhoods for visitors to explore during the World Cup.”
Economic and Neighborhood Benefits Expected
City officials say the ordinance recognizes that access to affordable outdoor dining permits is not just a business issue—it also supports community development, public space activation, and economic revitalization. Outdoor spaces have become essential for restaurants hoping to expand operations and attract more customers, especially in the wake of shifting post-pandemic dining habits.
Kansas City plans to closely monitor the impact of the fee suspension by producing comprehensive annual reports. These reports will include participation data broken down by Council District, economic impact assessments, compliance tracking, and suggestions for improvements in future years.
Restaurants and small businesses interested in learning more about how to take advantage of the waived permit fees can contact the Kansas City BizCare Office, which offers support and resources for entrepreneurs across the city.
The fee elimination is part of Kansas City’s broader effort to encourage innovation, enhance neighborhood vitality, and prepare for major upcoming events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to bring global attention and economic opportunity to the region.
