Tacoma Seeks to Promote more Sidewalk Cafes

With the arrival of the summer months local businesses are encouraged to take advantage of the warmer weather with a sidewalk cafe. The City of Tacoma’s Planning and Development Services department has launched a new, streamlined process that is offering an expedited permit opportunity to get the most out of the summer dining experience.

“Today, I am happy to announce the City is making the Sidewalk Cafe permitting process easier to navigate. I know local businesses are always looking for new ways to enhance experiences for their customers.  My goal in seeking these changes is to ensure businesses know the City is here to support their growth,” said Councilman Robert Thoms. “Changes were necessary to remove barriers and incentivize greater utility and create much needed vibrancy.” Thoms spearheaded this effort after businesses came to him to help grow sidewalk cafes in downtown Tacoma.

Restaurant owners and operators looking to operate food and/or drink service on the sidewalk adjacent to their businesses must have a Street Occupancy Permit and this new business-friendly process makes obtaining this permit much easier. These cafes can be a great way to encourage walking, add vitality to city streets, and promote local economic development.

This two tiered system offers an expedited Sidewalk Cafe Street Permit that can be renewed annually, or for those businesses looking to apply for a short term cafe, the City is also offering a 90-day Temporary Sidewalk Cafe permit.

To further enhance this new process, City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance during tonight's council meeting to amend Tacoma Municipal Code 9.08 to remove the $120 new application fee for sidewalk cafes. Removing this fee will help reduce the cost of setting up a sidewalk cafe for local businesses, further encouraging participation in this piloted program. Staff will conduct a fee study and bring forth recommendations for a full code amendment in fall 2015.

Starting June 30, and running through September, every Tuesday between 1-3 p.m. a Sidewalk Cafe permit specialist will be available on the third floor of the Tacoma Municipal Building (747 Market St.). During these designated Sidewalk Cafe permit hours, staff will provide assistance to obtain this expedited permit and answer any questions.

For more information, visit cityoftacoma.org/SidewalkCafe or contact Planning and Development Services at (253) 591-5030.