Outdoor Dining Rules on Council’s Agenda
A zoning amendment intended to facilitate outdoor seating by restaurants on their own property and on public sidewalks will be considered tonight by the City Council.
The proposed code changes would streamline the review process and update the rules that San Clemente restaurants, coffeehouses and cafes must follow for outdoor eating areas.
Most of the restaurants with outdoor tables in town do not have city permits for them, in part because of strict parking restrictions and high permit processing fees. The city code has not been enforced, because officials wanted to streamline it first.
Kelly Main, associate city planner, said the city wants to encourage outdoor dining because it enhances a pedestrian-oriented, village atmosphere.
“The old codes did not promote outdoor dining,” Main said.
The changes would eliminate some parking requirements; establish sidewalk widths, umbrella heights and liability insurance requirements; set maintenance standards for the outdoor areas; and, in some cases, reduce the fees for the review process.
Tonight’s council meeting starts at 7 at City Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio. Information: (714) 361-8200.
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