Kitimat Council has adopted a policy to allow patios on public land.
The recommendation came from the Kitimat Downtown Design Guidelines and Official Community Plan encouraging the development of outdoor patios, while the District of Kitimat had no actual policy to refer to.
A report to council notes that most businesses only have open spaces in the “public realm” — that includes public squares, roads and parks.
The issue went before the Advisory Planning Commission and decided to model a potential policy on the City of Nelson.
According to the policy, patios will be permitted as accessories to an adjacent restaurant, coffee shop or licensed establishment.
A 1.6 metre walkway is required to remain to allow pedestrian traffic. As well, no amplified music would be allowed to be played at 9 p.m.
The Downtown Design Panel will have to review applications.
Also, patios are allowed without a panel review, but those can only have up to three tables and six chairs, with no constructed platform.