Testify on April 8 to Support
New Zoning Proposal to End NYC Dancing Ban

On Monday, April 8, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. ET, the City Council Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises will conduct a public hearing on the City of Yes for Economic Opportunity, which proposes changes to city zoning laws aiming to “legalize dance.”  This hearing marks a pivotal moment in the public review process for the proposed zoning reforms. If approved, these reforms would eliminate current dance-related restrictions from zoning regulations for nightlife and entertainment venues. Additionally, they would ensure more available places for dance businesses to operate, including empty storefronts and neighborhood spaces.

What this means:
Currently, city zoning laws prohibit dancing in smaller nightlife establishments in more than 80% of the city, which has a disproportionate negative impact on smaller venues and clubs that largely serve marginalized communities–ALAANA, LGBTQIA+, and immigrants. The City of Yes for Economic Opportunity aims to revise regulations by allowing social dance to take place in any bar or restaurant in any commercial or manufacturing district under a 200-person capacity. 

What you can do:
Testify in person, online or by phone, and tell the City Council why social dancing should be accessible to everyone in all NYC venues. Members of the public can testify in-person at City Hall and do not require pre-registration. To testify virtually via Zoom or by phone, register at least 24 hours in advance. Written testimony can be submitted by no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 11, up to 72 hours after the hearing.

When preparing your testimony, consider these points:

• Share why permitting dancing and live entertainment at smaller venues would help your business, clients, and the communities you serve.
• Personalize your testimony by finding people who have experienced the significant impact of the restricted zoning regulations first-hand. Ask them to share their story.
•  Provide supporting evidence. Use data and other examples to demonstrate the critical role that dancing plays in your community.

TESTIFY TO LEGALIZE DANCE IN NYC