"For every chair on the sidewalk, plant a tree!", the new rule for bars, restaurants and hotels

2026-03-26 07:50:48Aktualitet SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

"For every chair on the sidewalk, plant a tree!", the new rule for

Bars, restaurants and hotels will be able to use up to 25% of the sidewalk for placing tables and chairs, but now this will come with a new condition: for every chair placed, the business must plant a tree.

This obligation is part of a new regulation for the use of public spaces.

The sidewalk use permit will be considered valid only after the entity has documented the planting of trees and has fulfilled all financial obligations.

The new rules also require that the passage of citizens not be blocked. A free space of at least 2 meters must always be left for pedestrians.

It is prohibited to place obstacles such as barriers, vases, carpets or structures on green spaces. Likewise, sidewalk grates without a suction system are not allowed.

Permits will be issued by municipalities through an online application and will be valid for up to 2 years, with the possibility of renewal. For temporary activities, permits can be issued for up to 30 days.

In case of violations, businesses are initially warned to correct them within a few days. If they do not comply with the rules, they can face high fines and even the revocation of their permit to use public space.

Excerpt from the draft decision:

In cases where the placement of chairs is foreseen, the entity is obliged to plant one tree for each chair placed. The permit is considered valid only after official documentation of the planting of trees and full fulfillment of the relevant tax and financial obligations.

The regulation also stipulates that:

The use of sidewalks is allowed up to 25% of their width, guaranteeing a free space of at least 2 meters for pedestrian movement./monitor.al


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