Colorado Springs providing temporary permits to restaurants for additional outdoor seating
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- The City of Colorado Springs is offering temporary permits that would help restaurants seat more customers while following social distancing.
The city is taking applications for temporary use and revocable permits to expand dining areas in the following spaces:
- Private parking lots
- Sidewalks
- Cafe patio extensions
- Balcony seating
The Colorado Springs Planning and Community Development Department also says it is waiving fees for the permits and expediting the review process to one week. To apply for the permit, click here.
“Restaurants have been one of the harder-hit industries during the COVID-19 global pandemic," said Sarah Johnson, the city clerk. "As businesses work to comply with public health orders, implementing these creative solutions for restaurants to accommodate more customers can help them be more sustainable."
Restaurateurs can also apply to have their liquor licenses modified so they can temporarily serve alcohol in the expanded dining service area. Both City and State Liquor Enforcement Division applications and approvals are required. To learn more, click here.
The temporary liquor license modifications will be issued for 120 days and could be extended by future public health orders.
Natasha Shnaper, the owner of Sacred Ground Cafe, says she's grateful for the support from the city leaders. She says reopening at 50 percent capacity won't be sustainable long term.
“It’s just enough to get by," she said. "That’s why I’m keeping the employee at a minimum and I’m working myself nonstop because that’s the only way to survive."
Her application was approved within days and she is now hoping to serve more customers in the expanded patio dining area.
“Yes we need city help but we do need customers," Shnaper said. "It’s safe, we’re taking care of everything, we’re wearing masks, we’re wearing gloves. We will take care of you. Just please come back and help us.”
