<div class="tldr">Outdoor dining sheds have returned to Mulberry Street in Nolita as of April 2024. Several residents have raised concerns about rising weekend noise levels.</div>

<ul class="key-facts">

<li>At least 12 restaurants have set up sheds on Mulberry Street.</li>

<li>Residents cite persistent noise complaints since April 2024.</li>

<li>City officials state all sheds must follow updated Open Restaurants guidelines.</li>

</ul>

The recent reappearance of outdoor dining sheds has renewed debate in Nolita. According to records from Community Board 2, over a dozen sheds were erected in the first week of April. Many belong to longstanding Italian and Mediterranean restaurants clustered between Prince and Spring Streets.

Residents who live near the sheds say late-night activity has increased since their return. Erica Li, who lives on Mulberry Street, described hearing "loud conversations and music" on Friday and Saturday nights. Several tenants' associations submitted official complaints to 311 and Community Board 2 in late April, citing noise after midnight as their chief concern.

City officials confirm that the new Open Restaurants program requires sheds to meet stricter noise, cleanliness, and safety standards. A Department of Transportation spokesperson said inspectors visited Nolita twice in April, issuing warnings to some operators for non-compliance. The city has not indicated plans to remove any sheds, but will continue monitoring conditions.

Some restaurant owners say the sheds are necessary to accommodate demand. Marco Bellini, owner of Piccola Cucina, stated that outdoor tables help offset slower indoor business. Owners have expressed willingness to cooperate with residents and officials regarding noise control measures.

<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>

<h2>How many outdoor dining sheds are currently on Mulberry Street?</h2>

<p>As of April 2024, at least 12 outdoor dining sheds have been erected along Mulberry Street, mainly between Prince and Spring Streets. The figure comes from Community Board 2 surveys and DOT observation reports. New applications are being monitored by the city.</p>

<h2>What are the main concerns from Nolita residents?</h2>

<p>Residents primarily cite elevated noise levels on weekends, especially late at night. Complaints also mention sidewalk crowding and cleanliness. Several tenants' groups filed noise complaints with 311 and Community Board 2 in April and May 2024.</p>

<h2>What is the city's response to these concerns?</h2>

<p>The Department of Transportation and Mayor's Office state that all outdoor sheds must comply with the updated Open Restaurants guidelines, including noise and safety rules. Inspectors have visited Nolita and issued warnings, with ongoing enforcement planned for the summer months.</p>