Guelph’s Seasonal Patio Program

Applications for the 2025 Season are now closed.

About the 2025 program

The City of Guelph’s Seasonal Patio Program is an opportunity for businesses to activate public outdoor space, including public roadways, for commercial purposes from the months of May to September each year.

For commercial patios installed exclusively on the City sidewalk space, please refer to the City’s encroachment process and encroachment by-law.

For returning patio operators on public land who participated during the 2024 season, i please be aware that a renewal  application will be required to participate in the 2025 program. New patio operators wanting to partake in the 2025 Seasonal Patio Program will be required to fill out a new application and encroachment agreement.

Seasonal Patio Program fees

  • One time Application Fee: $177 + HST, charged once during the application period*
  • One Time Agreement Fee: $238 + HST, charged once at the start of the 10-year encroachment period*
  • Annual Seasonal Patio Inspection Fee (if applicable) $260 + HST
  • Annual On-Street Rental Fee: $10 per square meter, per month + HST

*Returning Patio Operators who do not meet the deadline to renew their patios will be required to repay the Application and Agreement fees before patio installation.

Guidelines

Please ensure that you have read through and understand Guelph’s Seasonal Patio Program Guidelines in their entirety and ensure you have all required documentation and materials to make a successful application.

The pre-approved designs are available for businesses to submit along with their application and must be built to the exact specifications of the drawings if approved. Any deviation from these designs may require a new drawing or building permit. Any changes to the layout of an existing patio with a signed encroachment agreement may require a new application.

2025 Patio guidelines

The guidelines are meant to be used as a resource for informational purposes only and it is the responsibility of businesses and patio operators to ensure compliance with any and all mandatory regulations, by-laws and third-party requirements (page 5) each and every year. These guidelines and any related Seasonal Patio Program requirements are subject to change without notice.
Guelph’s Seasonal Patio Program Guidelines

New application documentation

  • One of the pre-approved patio drawings or a detailed patio drawing that has met all requirements.
  • A copy of your current Business License.
  • A copy of your current liquor license (if applicable).
  • Waste Storage and set-out drawings.
  • A certificate of insurance for $2,000,000 in liability with “The Corporation of the City of Guelph” listed as co-insured.

Renewal application documentation

  • A copy of your current liquor license (if applicable).
  • A certificate of insurance for $2,000,000 in liability with “The Corporation of the City” of Guelph listed as co-insured for the year in which you are renewing your application.

Helpful links

Frequently asked questions

Which businesses qualify? Is it only restaurants?

Public property patio applications are open to all business types. Patio design and aesthetic must meet the program guidelines.

For private property patios, please use the liquor licensing and/or building permit processes. All patios on private property must comply with the City’s current Zoning By-law.

Can I install my patio as soon as I submit my plans?

No, patio operators must receive an approved application by the City indicating when your patio can be installed.

How long is the application process?

The application process has been streamlined to meet business needs and only one application will be required for a ten-year encroachment agreement. There will be no annual application required unless patio boundaries change over time. Approval of seasonal patio applications are on a first-come, first-served basis and are dependent on the quality of submissions. City staff are available to help businesses throughout the process.

What is a pre-approved patio design?

Businesses planning to use public property for their patios have the option to use a pre-approved patio design to help speed up the application process. Below are the four pre-approved patio designs.

What level of accessibility does my patio need to meet?

Operators must follow rules laid out in the Seasonal Patio Program Guidelines and ensure their patios are accessible to all. These rules include accessible walkways, ramps when a curb is present, and other accessibility features. Patios on public land must be compliant with the Ontario Building Code and the Facility Accessibility Design Manual. Further information is available through the Seasonal Patio Program Guidelines.

I don’t know where to start with my patio application. Who can I contact?

Please reach out to us at [email protected].

When can I begin operating my patio?

All patios must be approved through the application process with a fully executed encroachment agreement prior to beginning to operate. For patios on the public right of way, water barriers must be in place around the patio before it can be used.

Can I change my patio layout at the beginning of a new season?

Changes made to your approved patio layout may require a new application. If a new application is required added fees will apply, If you are considering changing your patio layout please contact us.

Can I use any parking space?

No. Loading zones and active transit spots are prohibited. For more information, please see the Seasonal Patio Program Guidelines. Any accessible parking spaces taken up by a patio must be approved by the City. Subject for review by the City.

What type of Patio qualifies for this program?

This program is for any patio operator desiring to use City property (i.e. roadways) for their patio.  It does not include patios that are situated on already rented property (i.e. sidewalks immediately outside business).

I just opened my business, but the season has already begun, can I still apply for a patio?

Once the season begins applications are closed for that season. Please contact us for more information and to learn about other patio opportunities.

Who do I include on my insurance?

You must include “The Corporation of the City of Guelph.”