In a major operation aimed at reclaiming public space and ensuring full pedestrian accessibility, the Municipality of Athens conducted a sweep on July 16 in Kolonaki, targeting unauthorized tables and chairs set up by businesses. The operation, carried out by teams from the Municipal Police, also revealed 85 parking violations during the evening inspections.
Statement from Mayor Haris Doukas
Mayor Haris Doukas emphasized:
“The situation with illegal outdoor seating has become intolerable. We cannot speak of a sustainable city when pedestrians are squeezed between tables and chairs that choke squares and sidewalks. Those who think they can continue to violate the law without consequences are mistaken. This lawlessness ends now.”
Actions and Violations
Deputy Mayor for Municipal Police and Public Spaces, Thomas Georgiadis, added:
“Even with limited resources, the Municipality is not standing by. We carry out daily intensive inspections targeting both illegal seating and parking violations, both of which disrupt residents’ lives. Wherever we detect violations, we intervene immediately and enforce the law.”
On July 16, 2025, Municipal Police:
Conducted 19 inspections at food and beverage establishments.
Found 6 cases where businesses exceeded their authorized use of public space.
Regarding parking violations, the following were recorded in Kolonaki:
73 in resident-only parking spots (code R-70)
7 in controlled parking zones (code R-69)
4 on street corners
1 involving electric scooters (EPHO)
Year-to-Date Enforcement
Since the beginning of 2025:
38 establishments have had their seating areas sealed off due to repeated violations.
16 of those were located in the 1st Municipal District (includes Kolonaki).
New Regulation in Effect Since June 2
As part of Athens’ push for accessibility, transparency, and proper public space usage, a new regulation came into force on June 2, 2025. Key provisions include:
QR Codes: Stores and kiosks with valid permits must display a clearly visible and well-maintained sign with a QR code showing permit details, by September 30, 2025.
Stricter Fines:
Illegal use of public space results in a fine three times the applicable fee.
Repeat violations trigger removal of furniture and sealing of premises from 1 to 10 days.
A new penalty applies for blocking blind pedestrian pathways, with fines quadrupled per square meter.
Space Restrictions:
From January 1, 2026, no permits will be issued for public space narrower than 30 cm.
Immediately, chairs are banned in permitted spaces narrower than 40 cm.
Ongoing Enforcement
The Municipality of Athens plans to intensify inspections across all neighborhoods to ensure that public spaces are returned to the citizens, promoting a safer and more accessible city environment for all.
