In 2020, the City of Dayton launched a pilot program to create temporary outdoor dining and customer service areas to assist businesses in expanding seating capacity while meeting COVID-19 social distancing health and safety requirements. The program was well-received and helped created new vibrancy in our commercial districts by activating our wide sidewalks and surface parking lots. Due to the program’s success, the city will continue the program as a one of its regular permitting processes.

The Pop-Up Patio Program provides businesses with guidance on planning, installing, and operating new patios and customer seating on private property or in public right-of-way areas, including sidewalks or curbside parking zones.

Pop-Up spaces are not intended as one-time event spaces, large gathering opportunities, or parties. Rather, they are intended to provide additional flexibility for local businesses as they activate the area outside their operations and seek to test out new or expanded outdoor service areas.

Included are guidelines for:

• Patio expansions
• Parklets (platform cafes)
• Pedlets (temporary walkways around expanded seating areas).

City of Dayton staff members assist businesses with the application and permitting process, as well as guidance on public safety, construction, building materials and aesthetic appeal.

Interested businesses may contact the City of Dayton via email at susan.vincent@daytonohio.gov or by calling 937-333-3683.

RENEWING PERMITS

Businesses with previously issued permits need to submit a renewal application if they plan to operate their Pop-Up in following year. An annual renewal fee and inspection is required for any renewed permit.

If you are proposing any changes to your previously approved site plan you must complete a new application.

Full details for how to submit a renewal application can be found in the Pop-Up Patio Program Application Guidebook on pages 21 and 28.