AS part of its ongoing measures to support businesses throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Vancouver City Council voted this week to waive all annual 2021 patio permit fees for small and large patios across Vancouver.
“While COVID-19 has brought so many challenges to businesses and residents, we have also seen innovations like our expanded patio programs,” said Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart. “Now, we’re going one step further and waiving fees for all patios large and small across our city for 2021. As we continue to head towards re-opening and recovery, this is one more way we’re supporting small businesses while keeping people safe.”
Businesses are still required to apply for their annual patio permit at vancouver.ca/patio-permit. Refunds or credits (if preferred) will be available to all businesses who have already paid their 2021 annual patio permit fee.
The Annual Patio Program has been in place for over 30 years and predates the Temporary Expedited Patio Program, which was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and outlines immediate and low cost options for businesses to set up temporary patios on public and private property.
The Temporary Expedited Patio Program framework prioritizes immediate and low cost patio options to ensure that all applicable businesses are able to set up a temporary patio safely, quickly and affordably. Temporary patio permits are free. For this summer season, staff have approved 544 patios through this program, including 407 patios on public property (curbside and sidewalk patios) and 137 patios on private property. Applications for temporary patios are still being accepted, businesses can review the requirements and apply at vancouver.ca/temporarypatio.
The City said: “We know that restaurant businesses and staff are working tirelessly to keep the public and loved ones safe and appreciate your continued efforts. We ask that businesses follow the BC CDC and Ministry of Health guidelines for patios and outdoor dining spaces in accordance with the latest Provincial Health Officer’s order. The Provincial guidelines are available here.”
For more information, visit vancouver.ca/patio-permit or view the Council Report here.
