The City of Evanston's Economic Development Division
The City of Evanston's Economic Development Division
Evanston Outdoor Dining Guidance
As Evanston and Illinois move towards Phase 3 of Governor Pritzker’s Restore Illinois plan, the City is taking action to better accommodate and expand safe outdoor dining options for local establishments.
Phase 3 of the governor’s plan, which Evanston and Illinois are expected to reach on May 29, was recently updated to permit outdoor dining with strict health and safety guidelines in place, including limiting parties to six individuals or fewer, requiring employees to wear face coverings, and arranging seating to provide a six-foot minimum distance between tables. (The City’s Health and Human Services Department is requiring a six-foot minimum distance from the back of occupied chairs.)
On May 26, the Evanston City Council approved a resolution waiving sidewalk cafe permit fees for 2020 and allowing temporary outdoor seating permits to be issued in accordance with public health guidelines. City staff are also exploring options to create more space for restaurants to offer or expand outdoor seating areas, such as in parking spaces or parking lots, during specified hours. To help businesses better understand Phase 3 public health guidelines and the process to establish safe outdoor dining, the City put together the following frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions Where are outdoor dining services permitted under Phase 3?
Can I begin serving customers outdoors in my establishment’s private patio, rooftop or open-window space on May 29?
Can I serve customers at my permitted sidewalk cafe on May 29?
I don't have a sidewalk cafe. How can I get a permit?
Plans must meet State and City public health guidelines. A six-foot public right-of-way must also be maintained to accommodate pedestrians and meet ADA guidelines. Applicants must also meet other requirements of outdoor seating, such as insurance requirements and indemnification.
It is anticipated that approvals will occur beginning as early as June 2. Sidewalk cafe permit fees have been waived for 2020.
How can I submit a request for an outdoor dining area on public property (parking space, street, etc.)?
I already paid for a sidewalk cafe permit. Will I get reimbursed?
How much distance must be between tables?
How can I provide my input?
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