The Right of way patio program allows businesses, such as bars, restaurants and cafés, to put outdoor seating on the right of way. An initial review and approval in accordance with the provisions of the Right of way (ROW) patio by-law is required, after which permits may be issued.
Before you begin
Before you begin
The permit for a ROW patio sets out which months during a season the patio may be on the right of way. There are two patio seasons, a summer season (April 1 to October 31) and a winter patio season (November 1 to March 31). A permit is required for each season the patio is to be on the right of way. A curbside and streetside ROW Patios permits are only issued from April 1 to October 31 of the same year.
Cost and Timeline
Cost and Timeline
Approval process
- $399.00 First time review fee
Permit fees
- $73.00 Permit Processing Fee
- Summer Monthly Rental (April to October) per sqm - $11.45/m2/month (charged by full month)
- Winter Monthly Rental (November to March) per sqm - $3.69/m2/month (charged by full month)
Approximate timeline
- 10 business days
Apply
Apply
Where to apply
Please send your completed electronic application to the ROWPatio@ottawa.ca
Contact
Contact
Who to contact
Please send an email to the ROWPatio@ottawa.ca
Other considerations
Other considerations
The Good Neighbours (Patio Season) Guide [ PDF 535 KB ]
The Good Neighbours (A-Frame Signs) Guide [ PDF 1.031 MB ]
Urban Design Guidelines for Commercial Patios [ PDF 9.67 MB ]
Heating of Patios and Blankets
Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) has prepared a fact sheet regarding heaters on outdoor patios. All heaters must be approved for use in Canada and installed and operated as per the manufacturer’s instructions including proper ventilation and maintaining recommended clearances to combustibles and customers. All appropriate portable extinguishers are required to be on location. The type and size of portable extinguishers is relative to the size of patio and number of heaters in use. Patio Operators must also adhere to all requirements of the Ontario Fire Code.
For any inquiries related to fire pits, open-air fires or specific questions related to heating patios, please contact FirePrevention@ottawa.ca.
Please be advised that Ottawa Public Health has recommended that either customers bring their own blankets or if blankets are provided, that they are laundered in between uses. It is also important to ensure that combustibles, such as blankets, are kept away from any heating sources.
Covered Patios – Tents and other types of structures
Building Code Services, Ottawa Public Health and Fire Services have advised that at least two sides of any structure (i.e. walls) must be open while the patio is in operation, regardless of the weather. This is to ensure to avoid carbon monoxide build up from heating sources.
Anyone wishing to continue using or installing some form of covered structure for the season, needs to review the requirements as per Building Code Services and ensure that all requirements have been met. Building Code Services will continue to expedite permit approvals for tents, patios, awnings and canopies within 5 business days. Please contact Building Code Services directly for any inquiries at buildingpermits@ottawa.ca.