At the January 28, 2025, Council meeting, Town Council approved the Temporary Use By-law to allow for the extension of the Temporary Patio Program until December 31, 2025. Initially established to support local dining establishments during the pandemic, the program allows restaurants and similar businesses to offer outdoor seating options.
In January 2024, Council directed Town Staff to develop a permanent Seasonal Patio Program for food and drink establishments in the urban areas. To help facilitate the development of the Program, the Town engaged Landwise Consulting, which has been instrumental in the creation of the draft Applicant Guide.
The Applicant Guide outlines clear requirements for participation, including eligibility criteria, design guidelines, safety regulations, and timelines for submission. The guide has been posted on the Town’s website since January 9, and Staff have received comments from the public and business owners.
“The Temporary Patio Program has been a great support for our local businesses, enhancing the dining experience in our community,” stated Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa. “Extending the program gives us time to ensure a smooth transition to a permanent solution that meets the needs of businesses and residents alike.”
“This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting the vibrancy of our local economy,” stated CAO Bruce Zvaniga. “Thank you to Town Staff for their dedication in seeing this review of the Program through.”
The current Temporary Use By-law for the Patio Program was set to expire on February 28, 2025. The extension provides additional time to finalize the Applicant Guide and complete the necessary planning processes and implementation tools for the permanent program.
Applications for 2025 patio permits will be open shortly. New patios on Queen Street continue to be on pause. Only renewals of previously issued patio permits for food and/or drink establishments on Queen Street will be considered by the Town for the 2025 season. Future consideration of this pause will be part of the Patio Program review, with details announced in the coming months.
If you would like more information related to the Patio Program review, please visit https://www.notl.com/business-development/temporary-patio-program or contact planning.development@notl.com.
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Media Contact:
Marah Minor, Communications Coordinator
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com