Sidewalk Business License

Would you like to put a sign on the sidewalk in front of your business or maybe a sidewalk sale or a planter? 

This requires a special Sidewalk Business License from the City of Longview. Here's what you'll need to know:

What is a Sidewalk Business License?

The City of Longview recognizes the unique character of its downtown area. The “Sidewalk Business License” was initiated to give downtown business owners the ability to create a vibrant and exciting outdoor atmosphere downtown. This license (with some conditions) allows the business owner to have such things as café’s, retail items and signs on the sidewalk.

Downtown Commerce Zone

What do I need to operate under a Sidewalk Business License?

• Application for the Sidewalk Business License must be made with the City of Longview Community Development Department. 
• The business must have a current City of Longview business license.
• The business must have business liability insurance at all times.The business must obtain an endorsement of its business liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000, naming the City of Longview as insured. This insurance and endorsement must be renewed upon expiration to continue the Sidewalk Business License.
• Once approved, the business must abide by the requirements set forth in the Sidewalk Business License, including posting of the Sidewalk Business License near the business’s City business license.

Why do I need separate insurance?

Private use of the public sidewalk requires that the City of Longview be insured against damages or accidents, which the business is liable for. An endorsement of your Business Liability Insurance, naming the City as insured, is therefore also required.

How do I apply for a Sidewalk Business License?

Fill out and sign an application, provide a copy of your certificate of insurance along with an endorsement of your business liability insurance naming the City as insured, and submit to the City’s Community Development Department.

What areas allow the use of a Sidewalk Business License?

Only areas within the City’s designated “Downtown Commerce Zone” area allow business use of the public sidewalk. The map to the right indicates the boundaries of that district.

How long will the Sidewalk Business License be in effect?

You may apply any time during each calendar year when you would like to use the sidewalk. The license is in effect concurrently with your Business Liability Insurance and Endorsement. You may need to renew your insurance and endorsement should it expire prior to your business license. Sidewalk Business Licenses expire with your insurance or December 31, whichever is first.

Sidewalk Business License Pamphlet
Sidewalk Business License Introduction
Sidewalk Business License Application Form


Adam Trimble
Planner
City of Longview Community Development
P.O. Box 128
Longview, WA 98632-7080
P (360) 442-5092
F (360) 442-5953adam.trimble@ci.longview.wa.us