A provincial restaurant association is asking the district to approve temporary patios for next summer now so business owners can plan ahead.
The BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association, the Alliance of Beverage Licensees, and the BC Craft Brewers Guild have written a letter asking the district to make changes to support local restaurant industry.
The associations want the district to expedite applications for businesses to winterize patios in public and private spaces.
They want the district to start approving temporary patios for summer 2021 so restaurant owners can plan.
They also want the district to create a program for designated pick-up zones so that businesses can enhance contact-less curb-side pick-up in the fall and winter months.
“We ask that you continue to think outside the box as it is essential to business success and keeping hospitality workers employed,” they said.
The associations also want the district to consider clear and uniform requirements for heating, ventilating and electrical that comply with BC building code.
They want the district pre-approve styles of canopies and heater units and reduce red tape and cost where possible.
They are also asking the district to create effective communication, so business owners have clarity on applying for licences.
“Our commitment is to continue to advocate with LCLB to get the extension on liquor service areas to ensure that any changes you make will be possible,” they write.
