A program that saw eight patio extensions at local businesses approved in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 — with certain fees waived by the City of North Bay — will be in effect again this year through Thanksgiving weekend.
North Bay City Council unanimously supported the policy during Tuesday's regular meeting. A resolution was required to again waive "all fees associated with the creation of a new or expanded outdoor patio for this year's patio season."
See related story: Businesses applaud council's decision to waive patio fees for 2020
One of the criteria for participation set out by the Alcohol Gaming Commission of Ontario is the municipality must not object to the extension. The 2020 temporary patio extension policy approved by the Government of Ontario was to expire the first of the year but was amended to allow for temporary patio extensions, subject to the City’s guidelines and the AGCO patio policy, until January 1, 2022.
The fees eligible to be waived include patio building permit fees; parking fees applicable under the existing Sidewalk Patio Program in Downtown North Bay; and, Municipal Alcohol License approvals and extensions issued through the City Clerk’s office.
Based on the 2020 program, the City reports the financial implications are approximately $2,120 in unrealized building, parking, and liquor license fees.
Additionally, the existing Sidewalk Patio Program in Downtown North Bay has been expanded to support the use of sidewalks for outdoor retail space. The resolution also states the Manager, Planning and Building Services is delegated approval authority for outdoor patio extensions.
For more on the City's complete guidelines for "Supporting Outdoor Dining," to regulate the establishment of outdoor patios, click here.
