expression, godan verb (-ru)
be deserted; have no visitors
Idiomatic expression meaning a place (especially a home or business) is practically deserted, with no one coming by. The literal image is setting a net to catch sparrows in front of the gate because there is so little traffic. Often used in the form 門前雀羅を張る or 門前雀羅.
See also: 門前雀羅 (もんぜんじゃくら)
あの店は不景気で門前雀羅を張っている。
That shop is practically deserted due to the recession.
人気がなくなって、彼の家は門前雀羅を張る有様だ。
With his popularity gone, his house has no visitors at all.