Town Council and Staff have committed to supporting local businesses during and post-pandemic
At the April 25, 2022, Council meeting, Town Council passed the Temporary Use By-law to permit the extension of restaurant and bar patios, subject to the Town’s Temporary Patio Program requirements, until February 28, 2023.
This action was necessary to allow for extended use of temporary patios in Niagara-on-the-Lake, following the Province of Ontario’s decision to revoke Regulation 345/20 which allowed for temporary patios throughout the province. This decision was made by the Province in alignment with the lifting of other COVID-19 public health measures.
There are no additional changes to the Town's Temporary Patio Program at this time and the application process continues to be free of charge.
The Town remains committed to streamlining patio permit processes and supporting economic recovery while minimizing impact to the heritage district and ensuring all health and safety requirements are met.
Existing Temporary Patio Permit Holders are not required to re-apply, unless there are changes to their patio. Business operators must still remit a renewed certificate of insurance for 2022.
Any establishments interested in obtaining a new Temporary Patio Permit or existing permit holders wishing to alter or expand their existing patio spaces, will need to submit a new online patio permit application at www.notl.com/business-development/2022-temporary-patio-program.
“Extending this program supports the re-stimulation of the local economy following the economic hardships caused by COVID-19,” stated Lord Mayor Betty Disero. “As we have now transitioned into a recovery stage post-pandemic, I hope that this extension of the patio program can assist patio operators in garnering increased revenue by attracting additional patrons.”
Town Council and Staff remain committed to supporting local businesses and economic recovery through initiatives such as the Temporary Patio Program and the launch of the Town’s new local business directory, ShopNOTL.
"The Town's Temporary Patio Program has been a huge success, with positive reviews from business owners, residents, and visitors," stated CAO Marnie Cluckie. "It is our hope that this extension will prove to be beneficial in supporting restaurant owners' efforts to provide a safe outdoor dining space for customers to connect, enjoy delicious local food and drinks, and experience all that Niagara-on-the-Lake has to offer."
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Media contact:
Marah Minor, Community Engagement and Communications Coordinator
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com