The City of Los Angeles Planning Commission on Thursday approved a proposed ‘outdoor’ cooking program, which was launched at the height of the coronavirus pandemic as a back-up tool for restaurateurs struggling to negotiate sanitary restrictions that close their indoor dining areas.

The updated proposed ordinance would create a pathway for neighborhood restaurants to provide outdoor dining areas on private property.

The ordinance is seen as a key part of the city’s economic strategy to support local jobs and businesses that have struggled during the pandemic.

“While national and local emergency measures against COVID-19 have provided temporary relief, they have not provided a pathway to make outdoor dining a permanent reality,” said the Chair of the Commission of planning, Samantha Millman.

“Our proposed enhancements build on the success of LA Alfresco, making a permanent outdoor dining program accessible and financially viable for restaurants across the city.”

The order would also remove restrictions on outdoor dining on private property, such as size limits related to indoor dining areas and restrictions on the location of outdoor dining. It would also relax parking requirements on private properties for outdoor dining areas.

Eligible businesses would be allowed to extend their liquor service to outdoor dining areas through a streamlined online verification process.

“This updated ordinance changes the zoning code to set up restaurateurs and small business owners for greater success,” Vince Bertoni, the city’s director of planning, said in a statement. “Alfresco dining is another instrument that has contributed to the vibrancy and character of the neighborhood.”

Mayor Karen Bass released a statement following the Planning Commission vote expressing support for an update to the Outdoor Ordinance.

“Al fresco shows us a better way to support small businesses, create jobs and add vitality to our neighborhoods. This is a big step in the right direction for restaurants, their employees and their customers,” Bass said in a statement.

“My office will continue to work to create an ongoing program that helps restaurants and communities thrive.”

The mayor previously asked city departments to create a permanent outdoor program, which includes a simple and easier-to-navigate application process for business owners.

The draft order will subsequently be submitted to the Town Hall’s Soil Development and Management Committee.

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