Born in 2020 to support restaurant owners in the face of Covid-19 health restrictions, ephemeral terraces have transformed the Parisian urban landscape by occupying sidewalks and parking spaces. Popular for their conviviality, they have been made permanent under certain conditions by the Mairie de Paris, which has introduced strict regulations governing their use. Now authorized only from April to October, they have become chargeable in order to better regulate their presence and limit nuisance, while remaining an asset to lively streets and dynamic businesses. They're making a comeback this April, and we tell you all about their regulations.
With the arrival of spring, ephemeral terraces are making a comeback in the capital. From April 1 to October 31, 2025, Parisians will once again be able to enjoy these convivial outdoor spaces. Bars, restaurants and other establishments will be able to set up their terraces under certain strict conditions, including a mandatory 10pm closing time to guarantee the peace and quiet of local residents.
To open a summer terrace, shopkeepers must obtain authorization from Paris City Hall. Once approved, they can be installed on sidewalks, parking spaces, squares, medians and temporary pedestrianized streets. But there are precise rules governing these arrangements.
On the sidewalk: extension is authorized in front of the business and, under certain conditions, in front of neighboring buildings. On a parking space: decking and lateral protection are compulsory, but it is forbidden to occupy reserved spaces (delivery, PRM, cabs, bicycles, etc.).
To harmonize the public space, only tables, chairs and parasols are allowed, with a maximum height of 1.30 meters. Vegetation is encouraged, but without totally obstructing the view.
Thefollowing are prohibited: roofs, tarpaulins, barnums, pallet wood, as well as any audio, heating or air-conditioning equipment. Outside opening hours, furniture must be stored inside the establishment or secured along the façade.
As every year, checks will be carried out by the town hall and the municipal police. Offenders risk fines ranging from 68 to 135 euros for nuisance or lack of maintenance. More serious offences can result in fines of up to 500 euros and forced dismantling. Repeated offences can lead to administrative closure and withdrawal of the authorization for three years.
Terraces are no longer reserved for bars and restaurants. From now on, bookshops, record shops, florists and hotels can also apply. Once granted, authorization is tacitly renewed each year, subject to compliance with the regulations.
From April 1, you can once again enjoy the ephemeral terraces and savour the fine weather in Paris.
