Temporary Outdoor Restaurant Patios Permitted to Open

June 24, 2020

Today, restaurants and bars with a valid 2020 business license are permitted to temporarily expand outdoor seating and dining areas, provided they comply with City requirements and meet COVID-19 safety guidelines for patrons and staff.

“I am excited to help kick start recovery for our restaurants and bars with the introduction of temporary patios. We have waived several application fees and are fast-tracking the process to get restaurants back in business as soon as possible while keeping everyone safe and healthy,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “I’m looking forward to soaking in summer and showing support for our local businesses and hope residents do the same as we begin the road to recovery together. I also encourage landlords to work with tenants to find solutions that work for both parties. Without customers, businesses can’t afford to pay rent, so let’s make this a win-win for everyone.”

 Temporary Patios on Public Lands

Temporary patios proposed on the City’s municipal road right-of-way or a municipal parking lot, will require a Temporary Patio Permit. Restaurants can apply online starting today. A dedicated staff team is in place to review applications as soon as they are received.

Restaurants with questions regarding the application process, can contact the City at temporarypatio@mississauga.ca or can call 905-615-3200 ext. 5593 or ext. 8581. For public safety, temporary patios will not be considered on municipal road right-of-ways with posted speed limits over 50 km/h.

Temporary Patios on Private Lands

For temporary patios on private lands, no permit is required. However, patios must adhere to design requirements. Restaurants should seek the permission of the owner or property manager prior to installation.

Temporary restaurant patios are permitted with Mississauga’s move into Stage 2 of Ontario’s Framework for Reopening Our Province provided proper health and safety measures are in place. All local businesses must adhere to guidelines from the Province of Ontario and the Region of Peel. New resources available to support businesses reopen and recover at mississauga.ca/business-covid-19.

Background

Last week, the City introduced a Temporary Use By-law, to be approved by Council, to permit temporary outdoor restaurant patios. In the meantime, Council suspended the enforcement of existing zoning by-laws in order to permit temporary outdoor patios when Mississauga was allowed to move into Stage 2.

Council will consider approval of the Temporary Use By-law following a virtual public meeting scheduled for Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at 9 a.m. during Planning and Development Committee. Anyone is welcome to watch the live stream, listen via phone or submit comments in advance. More information on how to participate can be found here.