DBKL steps up checks on outdoor dining

 

Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud (3rd from left) said DBKL officers and enforcement teams would conduct frequent ground inspections, including at night, to enforce safety clearances and check mandatory compliance stickers. - NSTP/HAZREEN MOHAMAD

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will step up checks on walkways used for outdoor dining to ensure public safety and keep footpaths unobstructed.

Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud said DBKL officers and enforcement teams would conduct frequent ground inspections, including at night, to enforce safety clearances and check mandatory compliance stickers.

"To protect pedestrians and wheelchair users, business operators must preserve a clearance of 0.76 to 0.91m on five-foot walkways.

"I want to say that the improvements are made with safety in mind. And therefore, the safety of pedestrians, the safety of the disabled community will not be compromised," he told reporters after a visit to a restaurant in Wangsa Maju.

He said outdoor seating in designated parking bays was strictly banned to eliminate traffic hazards for patrons and restore parking spaces for public use.

Fadlun said enforcement of the updated guidelines would be stricter to ensure customer and pedestrian safety.

Since 2017, DBKL has allowed restaurant operators to set up tables and chairs on five-foot walkways, subject to approval.

Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will step up checks on walkways used for outdoor dining to ensure public safety and keep footpaths unobstructed. - NSTP/HAZREEN MOHAMAD

Last month, DBKL announced new fee structures for restaurant operators, including a RM30 monthly permit per table and chairs.

He added that the public could now lodge complaints against food outlets that occupied walkways or blocked public access.

"Members of the public and resident associations who spot unlicensed outdoor seating, blocked footpaths, or tables placed dangerously in parking bays can submit reports straight to their respective DBKL officers for swift ground action."

Fadlun said complaints had been low in the past, but growing public feedback had prompted DBKL to strengthen its guidelines.

"We are listening to the public as a whole, emphasising that safety will not be compromised.

"Considering the current situation and the incidents reported to us, we feel this strict enforcement is necessary. Any complaint received will be routed directly to the officers to take action on the spot."

Based on DBKL records, 124 permits were approved in 2023, comprising new applications, renewals and appeals.

The number increased to 160 permits in 2024 and 247 permits in 2025.

From Aug 3 to Sept 13, 2026, a total of 27 permits were approved across Kuala Lumpur, generating RM39,123.13 in revenue. - NST