Town requirements for sidewalk dining permits have been lowered and the application for those permits is now simplified, making it easier for Chapel Hill businesses to host customers outdoors on public sidewalks.
The town council voted unanimously earlier this month to amend the town’s rules and application process for local businesses interested in sidewalk dining.
Downtown Special projects manager Sarah Poulton said this effort was built on conversations with town staff and local business owners.
“How can we be more flexible and partner with our restaurants to add vibrancy to our commercial districts? And not just downtown.”
These changes concern the use of space in the public right of way, which includes the sidewalks in front of many of the businesses along of Franklin Street.
The old town rules restricted sidewalk dining to only certain areas and has had requirements on the type of furniture that could be used outside.
Now, the rules are more lenient, but still maintain commitments to safety and accessibility for Chapel Hill sidewalks, town staff said.
Mimi Hock, a UNC alumna and owner of Perennial Coffee and Pastries on Franklin Street, test drove the new application process before its full roll out. Hock praised its straightforwardness at the town council meeting.
“The new ordinance changes really benefit my business,” Hock said. “As well as potential businesses that would be my tenants that really benefit from sidewalk dining.”
The new application for sidewalk dining will be available online. The permit fee is $100 dollars.
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