The Town of Ponoka has launched a new Temporary Seasonal Patio Program to assist local businesses in setting up outdoor patios. The new program is being offered in response to recent provincial health restrictions that prohibit indoor dining due to COVID-19.
Dining on outdoor patios is allowed under the current restrictions in Alberta.
“The town is offering this new program to help our local businesses adapt so they can continue
serving customers while still complying with provincial health restrictions,” said Town of
Ponoka Chief Administrative Officer Sandra Lund.
Fees waived
“The town knows that some businesses are struggling under these health restrictions and we’re
committed to doing everything we can to support local businesses during these challenging
times,” said Lund.
“That is why development permit fees will be waived under the new
program.”
Under the program, restaurants that wish to set up a temporary seasonal patio on private or
public property, such as a sidewalk, can apply to the town’s Development Services Department
by phoning 403-783-4431.
“Development Services staff will work closely with each business to guide them through the
application and approval process as quickly as possible,” said Lund.
“We know that setting up outdoor patios is an urgent need for some of our local businesses. The Town is committed to expediting the process for those who apply.”
Streamlined processes
Lund notes the town’s Development Services Department has streamlined all its business
processes and adopts a customer-first policy that ensures all business applications are handled
quickly and efficiently.
Applications to the new Temporary Seasonal Patio Program will be assessed on a case-by-case
basis to ensure public safety and other key factors are taken into consideration when issuing
approvals. Applicants will be asked to provide details of the proposed patio.
The temporary program will run until Oct. 15, 2021 for patios located on public property to allow snow clearing operations to resume for the winter season.
- Submitted by the Town of Ponoka