More than 400 businesses had applied for a patio permit, as of Friday. (Courtesy City of Vancouver)

Vancouver issues close to 300 patio permits to help businesses cope with COVID-19

by · City NEWS 1130

Summary

The City of Vancouver has issued 290 temporary patio permits

The permits include making use of sidewalks and temporary plazas to expand seating and allow people to maintain a safe

Local businesses can apply online for a free patio permit

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — The City of Vancouver has issued 290 temporary patio permits to help businesses that serve food or alcohol through the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 400 businesses had applied for a patio permit, as of Friday.

The permits include making use of sidewalks and temporary plazas to expand seating and allow people to maintain a safe distance while eating or drinking, says a city release.

“This is a huge accomplishment and will help more people enjoy the city safely while supporting more and more local businesses,” Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart says in a tweet.

“It was great to see that in this time of crisis, our city has really come together to support small businesses by providing us with a fast, quick, and easy way to expand our seating outside,” says Mark Moody, owner of the Templeton restaurant on Granville Street.

“The patio program has been so important to us as we try to get back to regular operations,” adds Jeff Parr, co-owner of Their There/Hundy coffee shop and restaurant on W 4th Avenue.

“Our space is very tight and cozy so having guests back in our room would not be possible while maintaining proper social distance measures. Having a patio provides not only an amazing seating option but really helps the overall dining culture in Vancouver.”

Permits are valid until Oct. 31.

Local businesses can apply online for a free patio permit online.

“We know this temporary outdoor space is important to businesses, and our dedicated team is quickly reviewing applications as they are received. To speed up the application process, we’ve provided template patio drawings for businesses to use in their online application,” says Jessie Adcock, city general manager of development.

“Businesses who meet the mandatory requirements can expect to receive their permit within two business days of submitting their completed application for patios on a public property and within five days for patios on private property that do not require construction.”