HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-11344 approving the City of San Luis Obispo Outdoor Dining Guide and adopting new fees for parklets, sidewalk cafes, and tables and chairs permitsR 11344
RESOLUTION NO. 11344 (2022 SERIES)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS
OBISPO, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
OUTDOOR DINING GUIDE AND ADOPTING NEW FEES FOR
PARKLETS, SIDEWALK CAFES, AND TABLES AND CHAIRS PERMITS
WHEREAS, it is the policy of the City of San Luis Obispo to establish fees by
resolution; and
WHEREAS, Ordinance No.1539 (2010 Series) created Municipal Code Chapter
5.50 on Sidewalk Cafes and Ordinance No. 1716 (2022 Series) creates Municipal Code
Chapter 5.51 on Parklets; and
WHEREAS, the Outdoor Dining Guide includes information on the permanent
parklet program including the approval process, eligibility, design guidelines, and
operational requirements, and public input on the Guide was gathered including at a
public workshop, Open City Hall webpage, meetings with the Chamber of Commerce and
Downtown SLO; and
WHEREAS, the Active Transportation Committee reviewed and provided
comments on the proposed parklet design guidelines in the City of San Luis Obispo
Outdoor Dining Guide within their purview of bicycle and pedestrian transportation at a
public hearing on May 19, 2022; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. The Community Development Department will charge fees for
permits for parklets, sidewalk cafes, and tables and chairs as set forth in Exhibit A to this
Resolution. These fees will be adjusted periodically by the City Manager as a part of the
City’s Comprehensive Fee Schedule adjusting for changes in the Consumer Price Index,
as described in Council Resolution No. 10640 (2020 Series) and Resolution No. 11026
(2021 Series)
SECTION 2. The City of San Luis Obispo Outdoor Dining Guide (Exhibit B) dated
and effective July 2022, copies of which are on file at the Office of the City Clerk, is hereby
approved.
SECTION 3. Future administrative revisions to the City of San Luis Obispo
Outdoor Dining Guide are authorizied by approval of both the Community Development
and Public Works Directors as long as the policy framework contained in the guide
remains consistent with the July 2022 edition approved by the City Council and any such
revisions are documented in writing and provided to the City Clerk to be maintained with
this Resolution in a manner that reflects the scope of changes made.
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Resolution No. 11344 (2022 Series) Page 2
R 11344
SECTION 4. Environmental Determination. The proposed fees and adoption of
the City of San Luis Obispo Outdoor Dining Guide been assessed in accordance with the
authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the
state CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the City. Specifically, the
proposed amendment has been determined exempt per CEQA Guidelines Section
15061(b)(2), specifically CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) because
the actions are limited to permitting, leasing, and minor alteration of existing public
facilities within the right of way of the program area. The new use of the right of way under
the program by additional parklets and sidewalk dining is negligible when compared to
the total linear square footage of the program area. In addition, any new use is permissible
under Section 15301 (c) as it does not result in the addition of any automobile lanes. The
new use is also permissible under Section 15301(e) as a temporary addition to existing
structures.
Upon motion of Council Member Shoresman, seconded by Vice Mayor
Christianson, and on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Member Marx, Pease, Shoresman, Vice Mayor
Christianson, and Mayor Stewart
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
The foregoing resolution was adopted this 5th day of July 2022.
___________________________
Mayor Erica A. Stewart
ATTEST:
___________________________
Teresa Purrington, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________
J. Christine Dietrick, City Attorney
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the
City of San Luis Obispo, California, on ______________________.
___________________________
Teresa Purrington, City Clerk
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Resolution No. 11344 (2022 Series) Page 3
R 11344
Exhibit A
FEES FOR PARKLET, SIDEWALK CAFÉ, AND
TABLES AND CHAIRS PROGRAMS
Program One-time
Application Fee
Use Fee in FY
2022-23
Use Fee Annually
Beginning in FY
2023-24
Parklet $908.17 $1.76/sq. ft. per
month
$3.52/sq ft per
month
Sidewalk Cafe $908.17 $1/sq ft per month $1/sq ft per month
Tables & Chairs None $1/sq ft per month $1/sq ft per month
◼Current costs shown are per square foot per month but are billed annually
◼Non-profit and community groups using parklets for non-commercial purposes
are fee exempt
◼The cost for the space for bike parking is not included as this is a community-
wide benefit
City of San Luis Obispo
Outdoor Dining Guide
Adopted July 5, 2022
Photo: SLO Chamber
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SLO Outdoor Dining Guide
CONTENTS
1. Program Overview .............................................................................................................. 1
2. Eligibility and Permitting Process ........................................................................................ 3
2.1. Eligibility ....................................................................................................................... 3
2.2. Process Overview ........................................................................................................ 5
2.3. Approval Process, Costs, Installation, and Post-Installation Requirements .................. 8
3. Design Guidelines ..............................................................................................................10
3.1. Parklet Design Standards ...........................................................................................10
3.2. Sidewalk Dining Design Standards .............................................................................13
3.3. Other Design Considerations ......................................................................................13
4. Operating Requirements for Outdoor Dining ......................................................................14
Appendix A: Examples of Outdoor Dining Installations ..............................................................16
Appendix B: Example Planting Palette ......................................................................................16
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1. P ROGRAM OVERVIEW
Expansion of outdoor dining, through the addition of parklets and sidewalk dining areas, is an
effective strategy to not only support local businesses, but to activate the public realm by creating
pedestrian-oriented spaces worth walking to and spending time in. The City of San Luis Obispo
(SLO) supports expansion of outdoor dining opportunities through public/private partnerships as
a way to invigorate local economic vitality and to improve the walkability and enjoyability of our
community through creative urban design. This manual serves as a guide to help local businesses
and community members understand the goals, operating policies, design standards, and
permitting process for establishing an outdoor dining installation in the public right-of-way within
the City of San Luis Obispo.
1.1. BACKGROUND
The City of San Luis Obispo is pleased to support the expanded use of City streets and sidewalks
to support local businesses and expand opportunities for outdoor dining and activation of the
pedestrian environment. Expansion of outdoor dining opportunities through high-quality, creative
urban design supports several goals of the City’s General Plan, Active Transportation Plan, and
Downtown Concept Plan to facilitate a vibrant, inviting pedestrian realm.
The City’s outdoor dining program began in 2000 with creation of a permit program for temporary
sidewalk dining within the public right-of-way and was expanded in 2020 through a pilot program
known as “Open SLO”, which allowed for no-cost permitting for installation of temporary parklets
and more flexible use of sidewalk dining as a rapid response to the economic and public health
impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following positive feedback from local businesses and
community members, many elements of the Open SLO pilot program, including allowance of
parklets, will be carried forward on a permanent basis with this updated SLO Outdoor Dining
Program.
1.2. PROGRAM GOALS
Support Local
Businesses
Promote Vibrant
and Welcoming
Places
Encourage
Active
Transportation
Showcase the
Creativity of San
Luis Obispo
Support
Infrastructure
Improvements
Safety and
Equity
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1.3. TYPES OF OUTDOOR DINING
A. PARKLETS: Expansion of pedestrian
space within the public right-of-way through
temporary extension of the sidewalk into the
adjacent on-street parking lane.
B. SIDEWALK DINING: Installation of seating within the public sidewalk, which can be
categorized into two types:
• SIDEWALK CAFÉ: A sidewalk dining
installation along the frontage of a
restaurant, bakery or other eatery with
installation of physical elements, such
as barrier/railings to delineate the
outdoor dining area. Sidewalk Cafés
often include more permanent
elements, such as covered awnings,
planter boxes, heaters, and full-service
dining.
• TABLES AND CHAIRS: The
temporary placement of chairs and
tables on the sidewalk, generally in
conjunction with a restaurant or other
food service. No physical barrier is
installed, tables and chairs may not be
left outdoors outside of operating
hours.
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2. ELIGIBILITY AND PERMITTING PROCESS
2.1. ELIGIBILITY
W HO IS E LIGIBLE TO A PPLY AND WHAT USES ARE ALLOWED?
Eligible applicants generally fall into one of two categories:
1. Adjacent/fronting property owner or ground-floor business owner
2. Non-profit and community organizations
Parklets and sidewalk dining areas located in the public right-of-way are restricted to the following
uses:
• Outdoor seating expansion for restaurant, coffee shop, bakeries in a manner compatible
with pedestrian traffic and surrounding uses, in commercial zones where other such uses
are allowed
• Outdoor public seating sponsored by a non-profit or community organization, not for
commercial use
WHAT LOCATIONS AR E ELIGIBLE FOR OU TDOOR DINING?
PARKLETS
ELIGIBLE STREETS
• Must have a posted speed limit of 25 mph or less with on-street parking fronting
business/property requesting parklet.
PARKLET LOCATION:
• Only eligible in on-street parking lane not already designated for accessible parking (blue
curb).
• Parklets proposed at locations with existing commercial loading (yellow curb), pedestrian
loading (white curb), or no-parking (red curb) zones are generally discouraged and may
only be considered at the discretion of the City Transportation Division, Parking Division,
and Fire Department. Applications will be denied where parklet proposals are determined
Interested in Expanding Outdoor Dining on Private Property?
Businesses interested in expanding outdoor dining area into private parking lots or other areas not
located in the public right-of-way should contact the City Community Development Department at
(805) 781-7170 to confirm the appropriate Planning Application and approvals required.
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to negatively impact safe traffic operations and vehicle clearances, impede emergency
response access, or significantly reduce pedestrian and commercial loading capacities.
• Parklets adjacent to driveways and intersections are subject to additional design
considerations (See Section 3: Design Guidelines).
PARKLET SIZE
• Parklets may not encroach in front of an adjacent property, unless approved in writing by
the adjacent property owner and business owner.
• Parklets that encroach into the sidewalk must ensure there is a minimum of 6 feet of
unobstructed clearance on the sidewalk for pedestrian travel, including any existing
obstacles such as street furniture, bicycle parking, trees, and utilities.
Typical parklet widths may range from 6 to 8 feet based on the size of the parking lane, but must
retain at least a 1-foot buffer from the adjacent auto lane (or bike lane) and shall not reduce the
adjacent auto travel lane width to less than 10 feet or bike lane width to less than 5 feet. Parklets
wider than 8 feet may be considered if there is suitable auto travel lane width. Planters may be
placed in the buffer zone if they do not exceed a height of 30 inches.
See Operating Requirements below in Chapter 4 below for additional requirements.
SIDEWALK DINING
ELIGIBLE LOCATIONS
• Sidewalk dining installations must be able to retain a minimum of 6 feet of unobstructed
clear width for pedestrian travel, including any existing obstacles such as street furniture,
bicycle parking, trees, and utilities.
• Outdoor dining or the placement of tables and chairs must be contained within the frontage
of an existing or proposed restaurant, coffee shop, or bakery approved for on-premises
seating and incidental to the operation of that restaurant.
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2.2. PROCESS OVERVIEW
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OUTDOOR DINING APPLICATION CHECKLIST
Applications for outdoor dining expansion in the public right-of-way shall include the following:
Applicant/Business Information
Project Description & Purpose
Project Site Plan/Conceptual Rendering
Photos of Existing Site
Proof of Liability Insurance
Checklist items for outdoor dining applications are described in further detail below. Planning
Applications forms and checklist materials are available on the City’s website at www.slocity.org.
APPLICANT/BUSINESS INFORMATION
Provide business information, contact information for applicant and entity responsible for
maintaining/operating outdoor dining area (if different from applicant), a copy of current business
tax certificated issued to business owner, and signatures authorizing application and liability
release agreement (an agreement wherein the recipient of the permit agrees to hold the City
harmless from liability arising from the operating of the outdoor dining area, if within public right-
of-way). Consistent with the Sidewalk Café program, applicant will also need a consent signature
and contact info from the property owner(s) in front of the parklet area including any area of
encroachment to a neighboring property frontage.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION & PURPOSE
Provide a brief cover letter with a description of the proposed installation (i.e., parklet, sidewalk
dining,). Describe intended operating plan, including activity proposed within space, proposed
hours of operation, and maintenance plans.
PROJECT SITE PLAN / CONCEPTUAL RENDERING
Provide a site plan for the proposed installation, drawn to scale. For parklets, identify proposed
location, dimensions, number of parking stalls affected, accessible pedestrian path of travel,
design features and construction materials. Plans should identify distance to nearest
crosswalk/intersection/driveway, location of any adjacent utilities, street furniture, lighting, and
landscape features proposed. While not mandatory, conceptual renderings of proposed
installations are highly encouraged. Where vertical elements or roofing systems are proposed,
application should include structural drawings and calculations prepared by a licensed architect
or engineer. Where lighting is proposed, applications should identify location and type of electrical
connections to be used.
For sidewalk cafes and tables and chairs permit applications, identify the number, size and
configuration of tables and chairs proposed, type of barrier system to be used (for sidewalk cafes),
sidewalk clearances and obstructions in the vicinity, and other furnishings to be included in the
dining area.
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All outdoor dining applications should include a description of the type, color, and material
proposed for all outdoor furnishings, such as tables, chairs, barrier systems, planters, umbrellas,
signs and lighting. See Design Guidelines in Chapter 3 for more information.
Figure 1 Site Plan Example
PHOTOS OF EXISTING SITE
Applicants should include at least three photos showing the proposed location for the outdoor
dining area, including parking space(s) to be utilized for parklet proposals. The three photos
should show the proposed dining area space from across the street and one photo from each end
of the sidewalk approaching the dining area. Photos of unusual characteristics of the site and
existing signage are also helpful.
PROOF OF LIABILITY INSURANCE
Prior to approval of Outdoor Dining Permit for installations in the public right-of-way, applicant will
also need to provide proof of liability insurance meeting City Standards, including naming the City
as additionally insured for the term of the permit approval.
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2.3. APPROVAL PROCESS, COSTS, INSTALLATION, AND POST-
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
APPROVAL CRITERIA
This section describes how an application will be evaluated including issues such as parklet
design, community support, maintenance plan, utilities, safety and how an applicant will be
notified of decision.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION, APPROVAL & APPEALS
The City is responsible for public noticing required as part of an outdoor dining application. Public
noticing requirements, approvals and appeals are summarized as follows :
o Notification to all properties on both sides of the affected block a minimum of 30 calendar
days prior to staff action on the request
o All applications for sidewalk dining and parklets are reviewed for an approval decision by
the community development director and are subject to final appeal by the Planning
Commission.
o For all projects, the community development director has the discretion to refer a project
to advisory committees for review prior to approval.
COSTS
The typical range of costs to design and construct a parklet range from as low as $10,000 to more
than $40,000 (cost estimate as of 2022) not including ongoing maintenance costs.
In addition to installation fees, applicants will be required to pay Planning Application fees, and
ongoing right-of-way use fees for parklet and sidewalk dining installations in the public right-of-
way. Right-of-way use fees may be waived for parklet and sidewalk dining permits issued to non-
profit and community organizations for establishment of parklet or sidewalk dining installations
that will be used as public/community space not benefiting a commercial enterprise.
Encroachment permit and inspection fees for outdoor dining installations in the public right-of-way
are issued at no cost if applicant has paid all other Planning Application fees; however,
installations with structural or electrical features requiring review and inspection by the City
Building and Safety Division may be subject to additional plan review and inspection fees.
The current City Master Fee Schedule is available at
https://www.slocity.org/government/department-directory/community-development/fees
INSTALLING YOUR OUTDOOR DINING AREA
Once an application is approved, a temporary encroachment and traffic control permit for
construction activities will be required, which will detail the requirements for construction activities
in the public right-of-way.
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POST-INSTALLATION
Following installation, an inspection by the City will be required prior to occupancy. This section
describes what is necessary to know after an installation is approved including what is expected
for maintenance, operating requirements, the permit renewal process, and the process for
removing an installation including the City’s authority to revoke permit if not in compliance with
operating requirements and/or encroachment permit conditions of approval.
A. MAINTENANCE
The outdoor dining area must be maintained by the applicant in a clean and safe condition
at all times including sweeping and power washing, in addition to other maintenance as
detailed in the Operating Requirements in Section 4 below.
B. PERMIT EXPIRATION OR CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP
An outdoor dining permit will be for an unlimited term, unless a limited or probationary
term is deemed appropriate by the community development director. The permit shall
automatically expire upon expiration of the business tax certificate or upon failure to pay
the required use fee. Operators wishing to renew an expired permit shall submit a new
application with appropriate fees. Permits may be transferred to new business owners
subject to City approval of a new application reflecting new ownership.
C. PERMIT REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION AND INSTALLATION REMOVAL
A. The city retains the right to revoke or suspend the permit upon written notice to the
permit holder for any cause, regardless of conformance with these provisions. Situations
that may merit suspension or revocation include, but are not limited to:
1. Emergencies, necessary construction or maintenance, at the discretion of the
public works director;
2. Suspension, revocation, or cancellation of any necessary health permit(s) or
failure to comply with Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) permits/regulations;
3. Incorrect or inadequate insurance coverage; or
4. Failure to comply with conditions of permit approval.
B. Within 24 hours of receipt of written notice of revocation or suspension, regardless of
any appeal of the action, the operation shall cease and the installation operator shall
restore the permit area to the condition existing prior to the placement of outdoor dining
facilities or to some other condition acceptable to the public works director.
C. If pursuant to the above requirements, permit areas are not restored to order in the
time specified by the City, the City may remove any and all facilities installed within the
right-of-way. Reimbursement of City costs for said removal shall be the responsibility of
the permit holder.
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3. DESIGN GUIDELINES
3.1. PARKLET DESIGN STANDARDS
FOOTPRINT
Parklets can be proposed within on-street parking spaces and should generally fit within the
frontage of the applicant.
Length: The length of a standard parallel parking space is 18-22 feet. Parklet length, as
determined from this measurement, cannot extend beyond the parking space, including its
required safety features.
Width: The width of a standard parallel parking space is 6 to 8 feet. The parklet may extend to
the sidewalk only if a minimum 6-foot unobstructed walkway for pedestrians is maintained on the
sidewalk.
SIDE BUFFER ELEMENTS
Wheel Stops: To ensure visibility and to protect the parklet from parking cars, the applicant will
be required to maintain a minimum 3-foot (4-foot preferred) buffer on the ends of the parklet facing
the direction of traffic, with wheel stops installed on each end (see City Engineering Standard
2260 for wheel stop installation details). Buffer distance and wheel stop setback may be increased
to accommodate bike rack or planter box installations. Wheel stops, planter boxes or other
furnishings within side buffers must remain clear of gutter flow line.
Heavy Barriers: Parklets downstream of an intersection, or where otherwise required per the
Public Works Director, must have a heavy barrier for additional protection, such as water-filled
barricades (must be decorated or covered with a facade) or larger weighted planter boxes. Unless
otherwise approved by the Public Works Director, barriers shall measure a minimum of 6 feet in
length and 32 inches in height and able to resist at least 500 pounds of force.
Flex Posts: To enhance visibility of the parklet, vertical flex posts with retroreflective strips shall
be installed at the outside corners of the buffers, typically placed 6 inches out from the corners of
the wheel stops (See Figure 1 for reference). Additional retroreflective markers may be required
for the parklet ends to the satisfaction of the City Public Works Director.
Intersection, Driveway, Pedestrian Ramp, Fire Hydrant Setbacks: Parklets shall not be
located within 10 feet of driveways or pedestrian ramps, or within 15 feet of an intersection.
Parklets shall not be located within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, unless otherwise approved by the
City Fire Marshal.
ROADWAY BUFFER ELEMENTS
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Parklets must maintain a minimum 1-foot buffer along the roadway between the adjacent auto
lane or bike lane. A minimum 10-foot-wide auto lane or 5-foot-wide bike lane must be retained
adjacent to the parklet.
PARKLET BASE, DECKING SURFACE & DRAINAGE REQUIREMENTS
PARKLET BASE/FOUNDATION
The parklet base should be a freestanding structure that rests on the street surface and/or
curb/sidewalk. The frame shall not be permanently attached to the street or curb/sidewalk, but
removable anchoring systems may be approved to the satisfaction of the Public Works Director.
Parklet operator is responsible for repair of any damaged pavement, curb or sidewalk at no cost
to the City upon ultimate removal of parklet.
DRAINAGE
The parklet must be designed to allow drainage to flow along the gutter without obstructions. The
design must provide 3-inch high by 18-inch-wide clear gutter space along the entire length of the
parklet adjacent to the curb to allow for water flow.
PARKLET SURFACE/DECKING SYSTEM
The height of the parklet surface shall be flush with the adjacent sidewalk, with a vertical
differential of no more than ¼-inch between the sidewalk and parklet surface and horizontal gaps
between the curb and parklet surface (and within the parklet seating area) not exceeding ½-inch
(no gaps capable of passing a ½-inch sphere). If these minimum vertical and horizontal
differentials cannot be retained along the full extent of the parklet due to uneven curb
heights/alignments, threshold plates, planter boxes or other furnishings must be placed along the
parklet edge to eliminate trip hazards.
Parklet surface slopes shall comply with applicable City and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
standards for sidewalk grades, maintaining cross slopes (perpendicular to street) of less than 2
percent and running slopes (parallel to the street) of no more than 5 percent. Pedestrian ramps
and/or vertical steps within parklet area are generally not supported but may be considered on a
case-by-case basis at the discretion of the City Building and Safety Division.
Modular parklet decking systems, such as the tile decking systems by Elevated Deck Systems,
Bison, or equivalent are preferred, as these designs can be removed efficiently and without
special tools to access the area under the parklet for cleaning and maintenance. Other types of
parklet decking systems will be considered but should be designed for convenient access and
removal.
The parklet structure and deck may not cover any utility access points or stormwater drain inlets,
unless otherwise approved by the Public Works Director.
All decking surfaces must be non-slip and weather resilient.
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VERTICAL ELEMENTS
PARKLET PERIMETER/BARRIER SYSTEM
Parklets must have a continuous vertical barrier along each end, and along the exterior side
adjacent to the vehicle travel lane. Unless otherwise approved by the City, this barrier must be
between 36 and 42 inches in height (as measured from the parklet surface) and shall be
constructed using metal or wooden structures. The barrier system must be able to withstand a
minimum of a 250-pound horizontal force and should have no gaps or openings larger than 4
inches to minimize potential for persons exiting the parklet into the street.
If the parklet is located at a corner or adjacent to a driveway or pedestrian ramp, vertical elements
will need to be designed to avoid impacting clear sight lines for drivers and pedestrians to the
satisfaction of the Public Works Director.
VERTICAL SUPPORTS & ROOFING
Any proposal for vertical elements needs to be submitted with plans provided by a qualified
architect or engineer including structural calculations and will require review and approval by the
City building and Safety Division, Transportation Division and Fire Department. Any roofing
elements need to be placed at least 7 feet above the sidewalk surface and should not impede
visibility of nearby traffic control devices or adjacent building signage.
LIGHTING
Café lights and/or other decorative lighting installations are highly encouraged. Solar-powered
options are highly encouraged to minimize need for overhead electrical wiring. Hard-wired outdoor
lighting installations must be connected to an outdoor-rated GFCI outlet, with overhead wires
anchored at least 7 feet above the sidewalk grade. No electrical cords may be placed along the
sidewalk surface. All lighting installations with individual lamps/bulbs exceeding 10 watts must be
compliant with the City’s Night Sky Ordinance.
Higher voltage electrical elements, such as outdoor electric heating systems, may require
additional design review and electrical permit from the City Building and Safety Division.
PLANTER BOXES AND PLANTINGS
Landscaping elements are encouraged and may be required as condition of permit issuance. A
sample planting palette is provided in Appendix B.
BIKE PARKING AND OTHER OU TER ELEMENTS
Parklets should endeavor to include bike parking where feasible. Parklets occupying two or more
parking spaces will be required to include bicycle parking on the down side of the flow of traffic
unless approved by the Public Works Director. The cost of the space for bike parking is not
included in the use fee as this is a community-wide benefit. Bike corrals which are accessible
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from the street are the preferred type of installation in order to reduce sidewalk conflicts. Proposed
bike rack installations shall comply with the City’s Active Transportation Plan Design Guidelines.
3.2. SIDEWALK DINING DESIGN STANDARDS
SIDEWALK CAFE
Sidewalk Café includes the installation of seating, tables, umbrellas, and complete food services
within the sidewalk frontage of a food service business.
• Permanent barriers must be in place when alcohol is being served, unless otherwise approved
by the Community Development Director and consistent with Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC)
approvals.
• Path of travel for pedestrians (six feet of clear space) shall be maintained free and clear of any
existing obstacles including any street furniture, trees, and utilities.
• Where umbrellas or awnings are used, a vertical clearance of at least seven feet must be
maintained. The placement, color, style, and types of outdoor furniture and barriers shall be
consistent with and complement the design and appearance of the affected building to the
satisfaction of the Community Development Department.
TABLES AND CHAIRS
Tables and Chairs installations include only the placement of tables and chairs on the sidewalk
frontage of a food service business where no alcoholic beverages are being served.
• No fixed barrier may be installed on the sidewalk.
• Tables and Chairs are allowed within the frontage of an existing or proposed restaurant, coffee
shop, bakery, or other eatery.
• Path of travel for pedestrians (six feet of clear space) shall be maintained free and clear of any
existing obstacles including any street furniture and utilities.
3.3. OTHER DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
SIGNS/DISPLAYS
Applications for formal signage for branding/advertising must go through a separate application
for sign permit through the Community Development Department.
OUTDOOR HEATERS
Portable gas (LPH) heating appliances may be used within parklets and outdoor seating areas
but cannot be located beneath or closer than 10 feet to canopies/tents, and 5 feet to umbrellas
or similar combustible materials per California Fire Code. Propane tanks may be stored on site,
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but must be in an approved enclosed area of the installation to the satisfaction of the Building
and Safety Department and City Fire Department.
UMBRELLAS AND OTHER TEMPORARY COVERINGS
Where umbrellas or awnings are used, a vertical clearance of at least seven feet above the
sidewalk must be maintained. The placement, color, style, and types of outdoor furniture and
barriers shall be consistent with and complement the design and appearance of the affected
building to the satisfaction of the Community Development Director. Tents or “EZ Up” type
structures are generally not considered for approval.
4. OPERATING REQUIREMENTS FOR OUTDOOR DINING
Parklet and Sidewalk Dining permit holders are required to comply with the following operating
standards:
A. Alcoholic Beverage Restrictions. Establishments that serve alcohol must obtain any
additional permits required by the State Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board.
Businesses must be prepared to present appropriate documentation confirming that
proper ABC approvals have been obtained. Permittee is responsible for notifying to-go
customers that alcoholic beverages may not be consumed within the public right-of-way
(street, sidewalk, public tables) outside of the specific outdoor dining area designated for
that business.
B. Hours of operation shall not begin prior to 7 a.m. nor extend later than 10 p.m.
C. Expansion of dining areas within the public right-of-way frontage shall not normally trigger
additional parking requirements; however, the City reserves the right to require additional
parking or in-lieu fees in instances where significant parking impacts to the public supply
may occur. On-site bicycle parking may be required in lieu of vehicle parking spaces.
D. A path of travel for pedestrians shall be maintained free and clear of any existing obstacles
(street furniture, utilities, etc.) to the satisfaction of the Public Works and Community
Development Directors. Such clear pathway shall link continuously with pathways on each
side of the property and shall allow a minimum clear space of 6 feet. For new sidewalk
construction, the pathway should be 8 feet. These minimum widths are to ensure
compliance with ADA standards and reduce liability concerns due to shifting tables, wait
staff standing in the sidewalk or other obstructions which can reduce the effective width.
E. Removable barriers are required to delineate outdoor dining areas for parklet and sidewalk
café permits, except under the approval of a tables and chairs permit where no alcoholic
beverages are served, unless otherwise approved by the Community Development
Director and consistent with Alcoholic Beverage Control approvals.
F. Removable barriers shall be designed and installed in a manner approved by the Public
Works Director and may be subject to additional criteria as prescribed by the State
Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.
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G. Where umbrellas or awnings are used, a vertical clearance of at least seven feet must be
maintained. The placement, color, style, and types of outdoor furniture and barriers shall
be consistent with and complement the design and appearance of the affected building to
the satisfaction of the Community Development Director.
H. Items used within the outdoor dining areas may not be left outdoors overnight or when not
in use, unless properly secured to the satisfaction of the Public Works Director.
I. Outdoor dining facilities shall be confined to the area shown on an approved site plan
exhibit and shall not interfere with building egress to the satisfaction of the Chief Building
Official and the Fire Marshal.
J. Outdoor dining areas shall be used for sit-down food and beverage service only.
K. The outdoor dining area must be maintained in a clean and safe condition at all times with
appropriate provisions for trash disposal and recycling.
L. Areas for sidewalk cafes and tables and chairs shall be kept clean using pressure washing
at an interval of every two weeks.
M. The operation must meet all required County Health Department standards, obtain any
necessary permits and service to the areas shall be conducted in a safe manner at all
times.
N. The permit issued shall not be transferable in any manner, unless approved by the City
with submittal of a new application reflecting new ownership.
O. The outdoor dining operation shall in no way interfere with access to utilities.
P. Smoking shall be prohibited in the outdoor dining area.
Q. Outdoor dining areas including parklets, sidewalk cafes, and tables and chairs may be
restricted for use by customers only.
R. No host stations, cleaning equipment carts, outdoor signage/displays or delineated
customer queuing areas may be located within the public right-of-way, unless otherwise
approved in writing by the Community Development Director.
S. Issuance of the outdoor dining permit shall not permit or allow the erection or placement
of any permanent or temporary structure or improvement on public or private property in
violation of any state or federal accessibility law, including the Americans with Disabilities
Act, or prohibit or suspend immediate code enforcement action deemed necessary by the
Chief Building Official, the City Engineer, or any other authorized enforcement official of
the City, to remedy or abate: a dangerous condition or activity; any activity presenting
imminent threat of harm to the health, safety or welfare of the community; any violation of
state or federal accessibility law; or any unauthorized activity on private property or in the
public right-of-way. Permit holders are responsible for ensuring accessibility and ADA
compliance of their outdoor dining areas.
T. The parklet permit holder is required to maintain any planter boxes, landscaping, or other
aesthetic features included in the installation in a state of good repair.
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U. Parklet permit holders are responsible for keeping the area under the parklet, the buffer
zones around the parklet and along the gutter line clear of debris.
V. All propane cylinders used for outdoor gas heaters shall be stored and secured pursuant
to regulations in the California Code of Regulations and California Fire Code. Cylinders
placed in the public right-of-way shall be safely secured and locked within the heater
enclosure or stored in vented safety cages or cabinets in a flat area that does not collect
water and is adequately shielded from pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic to the
satisfaction of the Public Works Director, Fire Marshal and Chief Building Official.
W. The parklet permit holder is required to keep the parklet area in activation, using the parklet
for the intended use at least 5 days per week for at least 4 hours per day unless otherwise
approved by the Community Development Director.
X. Outdoor dining areas shall not be used for cooking.
It should be noted that additional operating standards not identified above may be included as
conditions of approval for individual outdoor dining permits.
Appendix A: Examples of Outdoor Dining Installations
Appendix B : Example Planting Palette
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Attachment A: Examples of Outdoor Dining Installations
Sidewalk Café
Example features umbrella, table and chairs within a permanent barrier
Tables and Chairs
Examples of tables and chairs
installations
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Parklet
Examples of parklets with wood
designs featuring planters and seating
areas
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Examples of parklet structures including
lighting and heater features
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Examples of parklets with bike
parking
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SHRUBSQTYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONT2 KALANCHOE LUCIAEPADDLE PLANT1 GAL1.5' H4 LAVANDULA STOECHAS 'OTTO QUAST' OTTO QUAST SPANISH LAVENDER 1 GAL1' H1A. FULL SUN PALETTESHRUBSBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONTQTYALOE X 'ALWAYS RED'ALWAYS RED ALOE1 GAL 41.5' HBOUTELOUA GRACILIS 'BLONDE AMBITION' BLONDE AMBITION BLUE GRAMA 1 GAL 32' H2A. FULL SUN PALETTE3A. FULL SUN PALETTESHRUBSBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONTQTYFESTUCA CALIFORNICA 'RIVER HOUSE BLUES' RIVER HOUSE BLUES CALIFORNIA FESCUE 1 GAL 42' HSALVIA GREGGIIAUTUMN SAGE1 GAL 22.5' H3A. FULL SUN PALETTESELECT A VARIETY OF SAGE COLORS: RED, PINK, LAVENDERSHRUBSBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONTQTYKALANCHOE 'MAJESTIC SCALLOPS' LARGE LAVENDER SCALLOPS 1 GAL 61.5' HPENNISETUM SPATHIOLATUMRYE PUFFS1 GAL 23' H4A. FULL SUN PALETTEC:\Users\jchafe\AppData\Local\Temp\AcPublish_16004\Typical Planting -1417-05_12012021.dwg, SHEET 1, Dec 03, 2021 9:45am, jchafe
December 3, 2021EXAMPLE PLANTER PALETTESCITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPONOTES:1. PLANTERS: SYBERTECH GROUND LEVEL PLANTER - RECTANGULAR 54" X 26".2. SOIL MEDIUM: EQUAL PARTS PERLITE, VERMICULITE, PEAT MOSS, AND COMPOST.3. HAND COMPACT SOIL AND WATER PRIOR TO PLANTING INSTALLATION. DURING PLANTING, ADD SOIL ANDPROVIDE FINAL HAND COMPACTION AND WATER. FILL CONTAINERS TO 1" WITHIN THE TOP EDGE OF CONTAINERTO ACCOMODATE SETTLING.4. CROWN OF PLANT TO BE AT OR SLIGHTLY ABOVE FINISHED GRADE.Appendix B, Page 1 of 3SLO Outdoor Dining Guide I 21DocuSign Envelope ID: FBB2B749-3D03-4E17-8EC2-ED7CA9F746DF
SHRUBSQTYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONT1 CHONDROPETALUM TECTORUM 'EL CAMPO' EL CAMPO SMALL CAPE RUSH 1 GAL2.5' H6 LAVANDULA STOECHAS 'OTTO QUAST' OTTO QUAST SPANISH LAVENDER 1 GAL1' H5A. FULL SUN PALETTESHRUBSBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONTQTYDUDLEYA PULVERULENTA CHALK LETTUCE1 GAL 51' HERIOGONUM CROCATUM SAFFRON BUCKWHEAT 1 GAL 41' H6A. FULL SUN NATIVES PALETTESHRUBSQTYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONT4 LANTANA CAMARA 'BANTE CHERIASUN' TM BANDANA CHERRY SUNRISE LANTANA 1 GAL2' H2 LOMANDRA X 'LOMLON' TMLIME TUFF DWARF MAT RUSH1 GAL2' H7A. FULL SUN PALETTEC:\Users\jchafe\AppData\Local\Temp\AcPublish_16004\Typical Planting -1417-05_12012021.dwg, SHEET 2, Dec 03, 2021 9:45am, jchafe
December 3, 2021EXAMPLE PLANTER PALETTESCITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPONOTES:1. PLANTERS: SYBERTECH GROUND LEVEL PLANTER - RECTANGULAR 54" X 26".2. SOIL MEDIUM: EQUAL PARTS PERLITE, VERMICULITE, PEAT MOSS, AND COMPOST.3. HAND COMPACT SOIL AND WATER PRIOR TO PLANTING INSTALLATION. DURING PLANTING, ADD SOIL ANDPROVIDE FINAL HAND COMPACTION AND WATER. FILL CONTAINERS TO 1" WITHIN THE TOP EDGE OF CONTAINERTO ACCOMODATE SETTLING.4. CROWN OF PLANT TO BE AT OR SLIGHTLY ABOVE FINISHED GRADE.Appendix B, Page 2 of 3SLO Outdoor Dining Guide I 22DocuSign Envelope ID: FBB2B749-3D03-4E17-8EC2-ED7CA9F746DF
SHRUBSQTYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONTSIZE2 LOMANDRA X 'LOMLON' TM LIME TUFF DWARF MAT RUSH 1 GAL2' H2 PHORMIUM X 'DUET'DUET NEW ZEALAND FLAX 2 GAL 1-2` H X W1'-2' H1B. PART SHADE PALETTESHRUBSBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONTQTYASPARAGUS DENSIFLORUS 'MYERSII' MYERS ASPARAGUS FERN 1 GAL 21.5' HRUSSELIA EQUISETIFORMISFIRECRACKER PLANT 1 GAL 22.5' H2B. PART SHADE PALETTEOPTION TO SUBSTITUTE TRADESCANTIA PALLIDA FOR RUSSELIASHRUBSQTYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAMECONT2 AEONIUM X 'MINT SAUCER' MINT SAUCER AEONIUM 1 GAL1.5' H8 EUPHORBIA MYRSINITES MYRTLE SPURGE1 GAL1' H3B. PART SHADE PALETTEC:\Users\jchafe\AppData\Local\Temp\AcPublish_16004\Typical Planting -1417-05_12012021.dwg, SHEET 3, Dec 03, 2021 9:45am, jchafe
December 3, 2021EXAMPLE PLANTER PALETTESCITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPONOTES:1. PLANTERS: SYBERTECH GROUND LEVEL PLANTER - RECTANGULAR 54" X 26".2. SOIL MEDIUM: EQUAL PARTS PERLITE, VERMICULITE, PEAT MOSS, AND COMPOST.3. HAND COMPACT SOIL AND WATER PRIOR TO PLANTING INSTALLATION. DURING PLANTING, ADD SOIL ANDPROVIDE FINAL HAND COMPACTION AND WATER. FILL CONTAINERS TO 1" WITHIN THE TOP EDGE OF CONTAINERTO ACCOMODATE SETTLING.4. CROWN OF PLANT TO BE AT OR SLIGHTLY ABOVE FINISHED GRADE.Appendix B, Page 3 of 3SLO Outdoor Dining Guide I 23DocuSign Envelope ID: FBB2B749-3D03-4E17-8EC2-ED7CA9F746DF