By Mike Hazlip–
The Citrus Heights City Council voted Thursday to allow local restaurants to use up to 50% of their allocated parking spaces for outdoor dining, according to a statement released Friday.
The city’s Temporary Outdoor Program comes amid efforts to resume business while limiting the spread of COVID-19. The program will relax regulations governing the use of outdoor spaces to allow restaurant to expand their dining area without a permit from the city — however a permit from Sacramento Metropolitan Fire, and Sacramento Area Sewer District may still be needed.
The program is slated to run through Dec. 31, 2020. Restaurants wanting to continue outdoor dining will then need the usual required permits.
The action aims to ensure restaurants and retailers “have the greatest ability to operate successfully through the recovery process,” according to a meeting agenda packet released last week.
Draft regulations released said expanded outdoor spaces will have to close by 10 p.m on weeknights, and 11 p.m. Friday through Saturday.
Alcoholic beverages will be allowed in the extended spaces, provided regulations from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board requiring a physical barrier are met.
Local restaurants will be allowed to use tents and umbrellas that are weighted down and do not obstruct public right-of-way. Tents must be less than 400 square feet.
Businesses will still need to obtain consent from property owners, and must comply with any applicable safety standards. A valid Citrus Heights General Business License is also required to participate in the program.
