The Café Seating program allows businesses to place limited outdoor seating located on the sidewalk and is one table deep. The number of tables permitted will be determined by an establishment’s frontage while ensuring the 2- metre clearway. Café seating can be extended in front of a neighbouring property or along the edge of a sidewalk (or “Curb-side”) with the appropriate permissions. Alcohol can be served at the café seating as long as all requirements of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario are met. Refer to the Urban Design Guidelines for Commercial Patios for additional information such as features and implementation requirements.
A Café Seating Permit is an annual permit which is valid from April 1 to March 31.
Before you begin
Before you begin
Issuance of a café seating permit is conditional upon the following requirements
- Payment of the Café Seating Permit fee
- Proof of Commercial Liability Insurance ($2 million)
What you need
What you need
Permit Requirements:
- Allowing at all times the required minimum unencumbered sidewalk width of 2.0 metres
- Not obstructing or interfering with public travel, any public service, or maintenance operations
- Tables and chairs must at all times be against the wall of the building or curbside
- Tables and chairs must be removed by end of each business day
- A-frame signs must be against the wall of the building or curbside
Cost and Timeline
Cost and Timeline
Approximate cost
- $73.00 annual processing fee
- Per annum fee $136.50
Approximate timeline
- Five business days
Apply
Apply
Where to apply
Email: ROWPatio@ottawa.ca
What happens next
What happens next
Who to contact
Email: ROWPatio@ottawa.ca