Vancouver owners and operators of patios large and small will have one less expense to worry about this year.
The City of Vancouver announced council had voted to waive patio permit fees across the city. In light of the costs incurred to Vancouver businesses and restaurants by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the temporary expedited patio program was created in June 2020. The program outlined immediate and low-cost options for businesses to set up temporary patios on public and private property.
Online applications for spring/summer temporary patio permits (free) on public or private property are now open! Our Information Guide is here to help your business navigate the permit process and requirements. Find out more: https://t.co/2GLWqn8uwN pic.twitter.com/KwzuohXGZ6
— City of Vancouver (@CityofVancouver) March 1, 2021
The program saw city staff approve 544 free patio permits ahead of the summer season, 407 patios on public property and 137 patios on private property.
"While COVID-19 has brought so many challenges to businesses and residents, we have also seen innovations like our expanded patio programs," said Vancouver mayor Kennedy Stewart in a recent release. "Now, we're going one step further and waiving fees for all patios large and small across our city for 2021. As we continue to head towards re-opening and recovery, this is one more way we're supporting small businesses while keeping people safe."
Businesses are still required to apply for their annual patio permit at vancouver.ca/patio-permit. Refunds or credits (if preferred) will be available to all businesses who have already paid their 2021 annual patio permit fee.
For more information on patio permits, check out the City of Vancouver’s website or the council report.
