After the pandemic hit last year, food and beverage establishments—once allowed to restart dine-in service—turned to expanding seating outdoors during the spring and summer in order to accommodate for physical distancing and to adapt to health measures.

However, fall and winter weather reduced that option.

With spring bringing warmer weather, outdoor seating will become more feasible once again. 

In preparation for sunny days ahead, the City of Vancouver announced today (February 17) that applications for temporary patios on public property during the summer open on March 1, and permits will run from April 1 to October 31.

These patios can be on sidewalks and curb lanes adjacent to businesses.

Applications will be evaluated for a number of considerations—temporary patios can’t restrict accessibility, reduce space on the sidewalk, encroach upon streets, or block access to critical utilities (such as fire department connections).

Also, the open-air aspect of the patio can’t be reduced by structures or enclosures.

The city’s deputy engineering general manager Margaret Wittgens stated in a news release that the Temporary Expedited Patio Program previously helped over 400 bars and restaurants.

Meanwhile, applications for temporary patios on private property can be submitted throughout the year.

Information on the Temporary Expedited Patio Program is available at the City of Vancouver website.