DIDSBURY - Council has approved a new seasonal pop-up patio policy after a special temporary policy allowing outdoor patio dining was put in place early in COVID-19 pandemic to support local food and drink establishments.
The approval came during the recent council meeting, held in person and on YouTube, with all members of council present.
“The seasonal pop-up patios allowed local eating and drinking establishments another avenue to increase revenues,” said chief administrative officer Ethan Gorner. “Patio dining was positively received by the community and enhanced the downtown experience. There has been interest from the business community to continue to use pop-up patios on a seasonal basis.
“The creation of the new policy will provide guidelines for the accommodation and use and licensed business owners can apply for a one-time only permit with no need to re-apply on an annual basis.”
Many of the business that have expressed interest in operating pop-up patios are located in the town’s central core heritage plan area, he said.
“The ability to accommodate the seasonal pop-up patios will enhance the people-friendly environment within this area,” he said. “The opportunity for a business to have a seasonal pop-up patio enhances their business and provides for an innovative way to enhance the public experience within the commercial areas (in town).”
The plan includes conditions for the pop-up patios, including the following:
• Pop-up patio size: Limited to two parking spaces and site sketch to be approved by the development authority.
• Sidewalk accessibility: The pedestrian walkways must not be impeded.
• Hours of operation: If the business is not open on a daily basis, the patio chairs and tables must be removed from the parking stalls to allow for use of the parking stalls on those non-business days.
• Sandwich board signs: Must be in compliance with the land use bylaw and must be located in the stamped concrete portion of the sidewalk only.
• When a seasonal pop-up patio is still in use and there is a snowfall, the patio shall be removed to accommodate snow removal.
