Seasonal Patio Program
Enhance Your Outdoor Dining Experience in Clarington!
Are you a restaurant or café owner looking to expand your dining space and attract more customers? Our Seasonal Patio Program is here to help you create a vibrant and inviting outdoor dining area that complies with all municipal and accessibility standards. Clarington offers two permit options: Sidewalk Patios on municipal right-of-way, and Private Property Patios (i.e. parking lots).
Why Join the Seasonal Patio Program?
- Increase Your Seating Capacity: Use outdoor space to accommodate more guests, especially during the warmer months.
- Boost Your Revenue: More seating means more customers and increased sales.
- Enhance Customer Experience: Provide a unique and enjoyable dining atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
- Support Local Economy: Contribute to the lively and welcoming ambiance of Clarington’s downtown and commercial areas.
Program Highlights
- Accessible Design: All patios must maintain a minimum passable sidewalk width of 1.8 meters to ensure accessibility for all patrons.
- Safety and Compliance: Patios must adhere to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and other municipal regulations.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Design materials should complement the heritage character of Clarington’s downtown areas, with options like planting boxes to enhance visual appeal.
- Operational Hours: Outdoor patio operations are permitted during specified hours, ensuring a balance between business needs and community comfort.
How to Apply:
- Review the guidelines: Ensure your patio design meets all bylaw, site plan and design requirements.
- Pay and submit your application: Complete the application form, pay fees (up to $1750) and submit for approval.
- Get approved: Once approved and inspected, you can operate your seasonal patio from May to October.