Rome City Council approves outdoor seating for independent bookstores

The Rome City Council has approved a new regulation allowing independent bookstores to apply for outdoor seating (dehors) to serve food and beverages. The measure aims to support the city's cultural and commercial fabric by helping small bookstores avoid closure due to economic difficulties.

To qualify, bookstores must have operated for at least two years and manage no more than four locations within Rome. The regulation requires that book sales remain the primary activity, with at least €20,000 in book revenue and book sales accounting for at least 60% of total turnover. For smaller shops between 50 and 100 square meters, the area dedicated to food and beverage service is strictly limited to 10% of the total sales surface to ensure the establishment remains primarily a bookstore.

Sandro Petrolati of the Demos party supported the resolution, noting that while public space occupation can sometimes hinder residents and pedestrians, independent bookstores serve as vital cultural hubs and neighborhood landmarks that deserve administrative support.