As the Victoria Day long weekend quickly approaches, so too does another summer pastime: patio season.
For many local businesses and cooped up Ontarians, the onset of warmer temperatures and outdoor dining is a right of passage into summer. As many patrons have already started to enjoy dining outdoors, several municipalities have extended support as part of recovery efforts. Meaning support is available to assist with the creation of new or the expansion of existing patios.
Already an improvement from last summer is that there are no outdoor dining capacity limits. Though by-laws vary, many municipalities will see street closures to make additional outdoor dining space. It is the hope that more space will entice residents, tourists, and visitors to support local this summer.
See below for how Ottawa, North Bay, and Sudbury municipalities are supporting restaurants in expanding their patio footprint.
Ottawa
The City of Ottawa has continued to waive the fees for all patio and café permits for the 2022 right of way (ROW) patio season. In an effort to support reopening initiatives, the council has also made temporary zoning by-law modifications for patios on private property permanent.
Restaurants in Ottawa that are in possession of city-issued permits are allowed to extend their patio space to sidewalks and parking lots. They are also permitted to operate until 2 a.m., as part of Ottawa’s continued recovery efforts. For more information on what aid is available, see here.
Greater Sudbury
Similarly, Greater Sudbury has established a streamlined application process to support local businesses new or expanded patios and outdoor retail initiatives. Businesses with existing licenses and built-in patios do not require additional approvals to open.
The City of Greater Sudbury has also announced that the monthly permit fee of $1.50 per square metre is waived. Fees associated with occupying on-street parking spaces are also waived.
Permanent or temporary liquor licensing still requires approval from the City of Sudbury before AGCO processing. Approval is provided by the Municipal Clerk and each application is reviewed by the Fire and Building departments. For more information or to contact the City of Greater Sudbury, see here.
North Bay
Additionally, the City of North Bay has also announced that it will once again waive all fees associated with new or expanded outdoor patio spaces for the 2022 season. This includes potential building permit fees, applicable parking fees under the existing Sidewalk Patio Program, and municipal alcohol license approvals and extensions issued through the City Clerk’s office. Note: the Municipal Fee of $40 is waived for 2022. For more information or to contact the City of North Bay, see here.
Adding or extending a patio for your business and curious about what type of insurance is required? Connect with a Gifford Carr team member today. Contact us
