Patio License Agreements

Restaurant or café owners can complete a Temporary Patio License Application to allow them to extend their premises onto the City’s public right-of-way (sidewalk) from April 1 to October 31. Patio Licenses are non-transferable and valid only for the location specified on the agreement and are required to be applied for each year. The purpose of the license is to ensure patios are established in a safe and orderly manner and to promote pedestrian uses and increase street level activity.

The following will be required in order to obtain a Patio License Agreement:

• business name
• business address
• owner name(s)
• phone number
• email address
• payment for Annual Patio License Fee (2026 fee is $317.00)
• A drawing of the proposed patio listing measurements. See a patio drawing example.
• Proof of insurance with the City named as a co-insured in an amount of no less than $5,000,000.00 (is required when serving alcohol), $2,000,000.00 (is required if NOT serving alcohol).

Accessibility for Outdoor Patios

Per the Patio Licensing Agreement, section 3.03 Pedestrian Passage:  The LICENCEE agrees that all portions of the sidewalk abutting the LANDS will have a minimum of two (2) metres of continuous unobstructed space along the entire frontage LANDS for the movement of pedestrians. This distance shall be measured perpendicular from the curb, toward the LANDS, to the closest obstruction and shall not serpentine along the HIGHWAY.

All patios must maintain the requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) and the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation, 191/11. It is the responsibility of each business to ensure compliance with the Act.

A list of considerations for improved access to your patio for persons with disabilities:

·         Maintain barrier-free access for persons with disabilities

·         The organization of tables, seating and access should accommodate a wheel chair. Consider accessibility when selecting all furnishings for outdoor public use eating areas. Choosing tables that already offer appropriate heights and knee space (750mm wide x 680mm high x 250mm deep) underneath will avoid the need for specially designated “accessible” tables.

·         a minimum of 1500 mm clear ground area is recommended on all sides to allow for unimpeded access for everyone, including people who use wheelchairs, scooters, or other types of mobility aids

·         Contrast the colours on fences and fixtures with surrounding pavement surfaces, making the area easier to navigate for those with sight loss

Visit our Accessibility page for more information on accessibility.

Application Process:

Use our online Temporary Patio License Application form to apply today:

Once you’ve completed your application, you will receive an email confirmation that it has been submitted and the City will get started on drafting the agreement. We aim for a ten-business day turnaround.  The agreement will be sent to you via docusign for your review and signature.

For more information on the Patio License Agreement process contact Engineering and Corporate Assets.

Liquor Licensing:

A Patio License Agreement does not grant you liquor licensing, should you wish to serve alcohol on your patio, you will have to obtain a temporary extension to licensed areas.  More information can be found on our Licensing page under L.

Any questions regarding this should be directed to the Licensing Officer, at 705-324-9411 extension 1328 or contact the City Licensing Officer.