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Temporary Outdoor Business Spaces
In an effort to facilitate the reopening of local businesses and in aid of Coquitlam’s economic and social recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, the City has reviewed its regulations and created a new process for processing applications for business owners wishing to expand their capacity or retail space.
The extra space is intended to allow patrons more space to maintain physical distancing. Examples could include:
- Restaurant or table seating;
- Merchant displays (e.g. clothing racks, outdoor tables, etc.);
- Pick-up or drop-off kiosk or customer queuing; or
- Checkout areas.
For information on the overall program, contact us by email
The first phase of this program, approved on June 1, 2020, permits temporary expansion of outdoor business space to the business operator’s private property area. The City has committed to reviewing submissions and, if acceptable, approving a temporary outdoor space permit within two to three business days.
For private property expansions:
- Submit your application form and agent authorization form, and site plan to the City of Coquitlam. Learn more about what is required in the guidelines.
- If you have a liquor license, the Liquor/Cannabis Licensing Branch has pre-approved seating expansion areas. Be sure to go to their site to apply for the extension.
- You will not be required to change your Coquitlam Business Licence conditions.
- Business operators will be fully responsible for the safe installation and operation of the patio expansion area.
- Your temporary patio expansion permit will expire once the pandemic is over.
Review the Guidelines (Planning and Development Bulletin #6) and fill out the Application Form.
For questions on the program or to apply contact us by email.
Additional Information:
- Report to Council - June 1, 2020 - Temporary Outdoor Space Expansion Program for Local Businesses
- Video of Council Presentation - June 1, 2020
City Rights-of-Way, Sidewalks and Curbside Parking Stalls
The second phase, approved on July 6, 2020, allows patios and outdoor spaces on City rights-of-way, including sidewalks and curbside parking stalls, where it is safe and practical to do so. These sidewalks can range from simply putting out a few tables and chairs all the way up to constructed platforms, See complete guidelines (PDF). To apply, complete this application (PDF).
For questions on the program or to apply contact us by email.
Additional information:
- Certificate of Insurance Form - Sidewalk and Curbside Use (PDF)
- Illustrative example (PDF)
- Report to Council - July 6, 2020 - Temporary Outdoor Space Expansion Program for Local Businesses Phase 2
- Video of presentation to Council - July 6, 2020
City Parklets, Temporary Street Closures and Outdoor Markets
As a third phase of the program, the City is exploring the further expansion of outdoor spaces to include other City-controlled lands such as temporary, city-owned parklet space, temporary or partial street closures, and temporary markets.
1. Fill out the appropriate application:
- Expansion on private property: application form
- Expansion on Public (City) property: application form
2. Send us your application. Remember to include an Agent Authorization Form, your site plan that shows distances, dimensions and the layout of structures, chairs, tables and other additions to the area. Email or submit your digital drawing package using our file transfer site: Qfile.coquitlam.ca. In-person appointments with City staff are also available by appointment at coquitlam.ca/appointments.
3. You may submit an online application to the City of Coquitlam that includes an Agent Authorization Form a Site Plan showing your proposal, and any other documentation supporting your proposal such as a copy of your Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch License Amendment approval from the Province.
4. You will be able to sign and receive your approval online using our convenient and secure electronic DocuSign program. You will also be able to pick up your approval in person by appointment.