The City of Welland is supporting local restaurants in anticipation of provincial guidance for re-opening restaurants. Recognizing the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on restaurants throughout the city, last night Council approved several initiatives associated with a streamlined approval process for temporary outdoor patios for the 2020 patio season.

Currently, restaurants are permitted to operate curbside service only; however, when the Ontario government lifts restrictions, restaurant owners can better prepare to serve the public and initiate facility changes before re-opening to onsite service.

The City of Welland is facilitating opportunities for restaurant owners to increase patio space or construct temporary patios for better physical distancing and to build customer confidence. The following temporary city initiatives will be in effect for the 2020 patio season:

These changes are in response to a virtual roundtable discussion that Welland’s Mayor, Frank Campion and senior staff hosted last Tuesday with local restaurant owners. This also complements new measures announced by the Province earlier this week to support the temporary extension of patios for restaurants that have liquor sales licences. The Province and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission have also minimized the administrative burden for licences.

“This streamlined review process for patios will support local restaurants for when the province allows them to re-open,” said Mayor Frank Campion. “We appreciate having the comments of restaurant owners on how we can prepare them for this year’s patio season.”

Outdoor patios must still comply with Building and Fire Code, including Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario requirements where applicable. Ontario’s provincial emergency orders remain in effect until June 19, 2020. Owners wishing to install or expand an outdoor patio must submit a proposed site plan to the city’s Planning Division, which shows the subject lands, site layout, and the proposed location of the outdoor patio.

For more information regarding patios on private property or parking lots, contact 905-735-1700 Ext. 2240 or email devserv@welland.ca. For more information regarding patios on public sidewalks or parking spaces, contact 905-735-1700 Ext. 2224 or email bylaw_enforc@welland.ca. For more information on City of Welland COVID-19 recovery, visit welland.ca.