City provides update on outdoor patios
Thursday, June 11, 2020
The Province of Ontario has announced new measures that will make it easier for licensed bars and restaurants to open or expand patios when it is safe for them to do so. Outdoor patios selling liquor may open beginning Friday, June 12, 2020 provided that a number of conditions are met including:
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The physical extension of the patio is adjacent to the premises to which the licence to sell liquor applies;
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The municipality does not object to an extension;
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The licensee is able to demonstrate sufficient control over the physical extension of the premises;
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There is no condition on the liquor sales licence prohibiting a patio; and,
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The capacity of any new patio, or extended patio space where the licensee has an existing licensed patio, does not exceed 1.11 square metres per person.
“The City is using a simplified process for municipal approvals on private property and has made modifications to its existing patio regulations to reflect provincial guidelines,” said Don McConnell, Director of Planning. “During this time, we hope to make it as accessible as possible for people who want to serve their patrons outside, while still keeping customers and our community safe.”
Applicants should contact the Planning office to provide the following information:
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Legal name of the business
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Contact information
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A sketch showing the location and size of the patio. Please ensure that access from existing building entrances is not impeded.
Proposed patios on public property (e.g. sidewalks, boulevards, parking areas) will require a Licence to Occupy agreement with the municipality.
For further information, please contact:
City Planning Office
705-759-5368
Conformity with municipal regulations does not exempt restaurants and bars from also complying with all health related requirements from Algoma Public Health, including physical distancing. As well, liquor licence requirements set out under the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) must be met. Proponents are asked to contact the individual organizations for more information.