Florence to Ban Outdoor Dining Structures in 50 UNESCO Streets from 2026

Starting in 2026, Florence will enforce a complete ban on outdoor dining structures (dehors) in 50 streets within the UNESCO World Heritage area, including some of the city’s most iconic locations such as Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale degli Uffizi, Via Roma, Via Maggio, Via Romana, Borgo Santa Croce, Via dei Georgofili, and Piazza di Santa Maria Nuova.

The decision, part of a new protocol signed between the Municipality of Florence and the Superintendence for Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape, aims to protect the city’s artistic and architectural heritage while ensuring more balanced use of public space.

For another 73 streets, outdoor setups will still be allowed but strictly regulated according to five categories, from the simplest (type A: only tables and chairs with small umbrellas) to the most invasive (type D: enclosed and roofed structures). A new intermediate category, B1, will permit partial enclosures with transparent side panels during the winter months.

Focus on Florence’s most famous squares

For the city’s four “noble squares” — Piazza della Signoria, Piazza della Repubblica, Piazza Santa Maria Novella, and Piazza Pitti — the Municipality and Superintendence will jointly define permitted layouts within 30 days of the protocol’s signing.

In Piazza della Repubblica, for example, all installations will have to follow strict symmetry and preserve a central open space between the occupied sides of the square.

A greener, more elegant cityscape

The new rules introduce a ban on plastic materials, including sheets, tarps, and awnings, and prohibit advertising, bright-colored lighting, and branded decor. Instead, café owners will be encouraged to incorporate plants and seasonal flowers using sustainable and locally appropriate species.

The reform marks the most significant update to Florence’s public space regulations in fifteen years, replacing the framework introduced under former mayor Matteo Renzi. Once approved by the City Council, the new system will gradually come into force from early 2026, reshaping the way people experience Florence’s historic streets and piazzas.

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