GLENDALE : Alfresco Dining Ordinance Extended

Restaurants in Glendale have until next November to apply for sidewalk dining permits under an emergency ordinance that has been extended until next year.

The ordinance was initially approved for a three-month run last July, after restaurant operators told city staff of their interest in setting up tables on public sidewalks, similar to some shops in Old Town Pasadena. It was extended until next November.

Without the ordinance and its extension, restaurateurs would have to pay $850 for a special street-use permit for sidewalk dining, officials said. The temporary law sharply cuts the cost of a permit to $50.

The ordinance was extended into next year to give more restaurants and food shops an opportunity to apply for permits. By last month, only Farniente Ristorante and Kix restaurant had obtained permits to set up tables, chairs, portable umbrellas or other furnishings in front of their businesses.

But several other restaurants have either applied for the sidewalk permits or expressed interest in doing so. The City Council voted to extend the ordinance at a meeting last month.

Le Pafe Cafe Bakery owner Linda Reid says sidewalk dining is especially convenient for customers who drop by but are reluctant to come inside because they either have bikes or pets.

“People enjoy sitting outside, people watching,” Reid said. “I think outside dining is going to be favorable.”