Rules for Outdoor Dining May Change

Because having a meal or a cup of coffee outdoors is gaining popularity at local restaurants and coffeehouses, the City Council today will consider changing the rules for open-air dining.

Small outdoor seating areas of one to four tables and as many as 16 seats would not have to pay a fee or get a city permit, said Joyce R. Rosenthal, director of development services.

The city now charges a $125 application fee to restaurateurs who offer outdoor seating. Businesses would have to file a site plan with the city, however, and have permission from the property owner, Rosenthal said.

Larger outdoor areas with five or more tables would need a use permit, which costs $340, and approval by the Planning Commission.

Rosenthal said 14 businesses in the city now have outdoor eating areas.

“We’re getting more and more requests for them,” she said, which prompted officials to review the rules. “It’s an ‘in’ thing right now. . . . And when you have good weather, it’s a feel-good kind of thing” to eat outdoors.

The council meets at 7:30 p.m. in chambers, 401 E. Chapman Ave. A study session on the outdoor seating issue is set for 6 p.m.

Information: (714) 993-8231.