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About the program
The City thanks all operators and visitors of seasonal patios for making the program such a success during the pilot program. Temporary patios that were active during the 2021-2023 seasons must have all furnishings, decking, and built structures fully removed effective November 2, 2023. Any active encroachment agreements for the use of the public right of way are terminated effective October 31, 2023. Ten year encroachments for sidewalk space remain active per the terms of their agreement.
In July, Council approved Staff recommendations for the continuation of the program in 2024. Those recommendations will receive final approval during the City’s 2024-2027 multi-year budget process. If you would like to be added to our list of patio operators for updates on the 2024 patio season, please reach out to [email protected].
Feedback or concerns
We are always working to improve visitor experiences to participants in the Seasonal Patio Program and value your feedback. Comments can be sent to [email protected]. We will respond within two business days.
For concerns related to installed patios, please use the Report a problem map for follow up.
Guidelines
The guidelines for the 2024 season will be confirmed and finalized at Council through the 2024-2027 multi-year budget. Once approved they will be added to this section.
Expected changes to the program include:
- Private property applications must go through the regular building permit and liquor licensing process while the Seasonal Patio Program will be for those looking to operate temporary patios on public land only;
- Updated patio season from the first weekend in May to the last weekend in September;
- Updated fees that include:
- Application Fee: $171 +HST, charged once during the application period
- Agreement Fee: $228 +HST, charged once at the start of the 10 year encroachment period
- Seasonal Patio Inspection Fee (if applicable): $260 +HST, charged annually
- On-Street Rental Fee: $10 per square meter, per month + HST, charged annually for five months total
It is the ongoing responsibility of Patio operators to monitor changing legal requirements and updates to these Seasonal Patio Guidelines, particularly but not limited to as they pertain to public health regulations, orders, and guidance from the Provincial Government, the Government of Canada and/or the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Health Public Health Unit.
Resources
- Accessibility Inspection Checklist
- Accessibility is Good for Business
- Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
- Encroachment Bylaw
- Facility Accessibility Design Manual (FADM)
- Noise Control Bylaw
- Ontario Building Code
- Ontario Fire Code
- On-street Patio Permissions Map
- Zoning By-law
For more information
City of Guelph Economic Development and Tourism
519-822-1260 extension 2533
[email protected]