The governor of the US state of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, has enacted legislation S3608/A4866, making outdoor dining permissions permanent for restaurants and certain alcoholic beverage retailers and manufacturers.  

The permissions were initially temporary measures introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic and were due to expire on 30 November 2024.  

The primary sponsors of S3608/A4866 are Senator Vincent J Polistina, Senator Paul A Sarlo, Assemblyman Roy Freiman, Assemblywoman Mitchelle Drulis and Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato. 

The new law ensures that businesses can continue to utilise designated outdoor spaces or public sidewalks indefinitely for dining. 

Governor Murphy said: “Outdoor dining has proven to be an incredibly successful venture over the past four years, benefiting business owners and patrons alike. I’m proud to continue this popular measure and look forward to seeing our restaurant industry continue to grow.” 

The legislation authorises the ongoing use of outdoor fixtures such as tents, canopies, umbrellas, tables and chairs.  

The move solidifies a temporary law signed by Governor Murphy in February 2021 and is seen as a significant support measure for the food and beverage industry.  

New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J Platkin said: “I’m pleased that both New Jersey residents and restaurants will be able to continue enjoying this option, which has a positive impact on our downtowns and enhances our communities.  

“I’d like to thank the bill’s sponsors as well as Governor Murphy for providing the state’s residents with as many choices as possible.” 

Establishments with a temporary expansion permit from the New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) can now convert these into permanent permits.  

These permits are renewable annually with the approval of local authorities. 

Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ) president and CEO Carlos Medina said: “What started as a lifeline for restaurants during Covid-19 has become a lasting solution that supports small businesses, enriches the dining experience and fosters stronger community connections.  

“This policy represents a critical step in ensuring the resilience and growth of Latino-owned restaurants, which is vital to the small business ecosystem in New Jersey and the SHCCNJ community. It's a pro-business, pro-community model of how innovative policies can transform adversity into enduring opportunities."