The DC Council has eased rules on the city’s pandemic-era 'streateries' and set new limits and an end date for the temporary youth curfew. The Council passed emergency legislation to support businesses while addressing regulatory concerns.
According to the DC Council, the bill designates streateries as a permanent urban feature and gives the Public Space Committee discretion over design and placement. Enforcement is expected to begin January 15, 2026, and the bill includes a compromise on public space rental fees.
The emergency legislation also covers alcohol service in streateries. Businesses serving beer, wine, or spirits outdoors will need a license endorsement from the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board.
The latest legislation extends the ability to enforce youth curfews but places limits on them. Previously, zoned curfews declared by the chief of police were limited to 30 days, while curfews declared by the mayor had no such limit. The revised bill now caps all zoned curfews at 30 days and sets a sunset date of April 15, 2026, the Council explained.
The Council also passed a measure ensuring block party permits cannot be denied due to coinciding neighborhood events, such as Porchfests, if certain conditions are met. The legislation aims to make it easier for communities to hold local celebrations.
The next Legislative Meeting of the DC Council is scheduled for December 16, where further discussions on both these matters and new issues will proceed.
