Calgary’s extended street patios returning with safety, accessibility changes
Posted May 2, 2022 2:50 pm.
Last Updated May 2, 2022 3:15 pm.
Calgary’s extended street patios for restaurants and bars are coming back for another year after seeing success when COVID-19 restrictions and indoor capacity limitations were in place.
Applications for outdoor patios are now being accepted by the city, and some changes are coming to ensure there is more focus on safety and accessibility.
“We recognize that this is a transition year for businesses and our local economy, so for the third straight year there will not be a fee to apply for a patio permit,” said Erin Chrusch, Acting Lead, Business and Local Economy.
The City of Calgary says it’s making the process easier for businesses this year by including rules to leave sidewalks unobstructed wherever possible by allowing businesses to put their patios in the parking or curbside lane of the nearby road.
RELATED ARTICLE: Calgary’s Red Mile potentially returning, bars and restaurants excited
As part of the new rules, for businesses that can’t put their patios on the road, there must be a minimum of two metres of space on the sidewalk so pedestrians have room to get around.
Some places, including along 17th Avenue SW, will likely have boardwalks built alongside the patios so people can walk around and there will no longer be unsightly orange barriers.
The city also says this will allow “businesses to flex their design and aesthetic muscles when planning an outdoor patio.”
Owners who want to apply for an extended patio permit can do so on the city’s website.
