Outdoor Dining Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the process for obtaining approval for outdoor dining?

To establish an Outdoor Dining area for your business on the public sidewalk, begin at the City Planning public counter in Room 111, City Hall, 1685 Main Street.  The Planner will review your proposal and provide you with an Outdoor Dining License application and guide you through the process. You will need to schedule an appointment with a Counter Planner to review your application when it is submitted. Upon submittal of your application, you will be assigned a Project Manager and your application will be routed to other City Departments for their review. If Planning Commission review and approval of your proposed outdoor dining area is required, this process should occur prior to your filing of an Outdoor Dining License application. You will be allowed to begin operation of your outdoor dining upon approval of your Outdoor Dining Permit and upon receipt of an Outdoor Dining License for use of the public right-of-way. The Outdoor Dining License will stipulate the monthly license fee, insurance and other City requirements.

2. How large an area is allowed for outdoor dining?

Outdoor dining areas less than 200 sq. ft. may be approved administratively and do not require additional parking. Outdoor dining areas greater than 200 sq. ft. will require a Performance Standards Permit and possibly other planning permits and may require additional off-street parking spaces.

3. How long does it take to receive all permits and licenses?
    

For Outdoor Dining Licenses of less than 200 sq. ft., approval usually can be obtained within 4 weeks.  If your application requires a Performance Standards Permit or review by either the Architectural Review Board or Planning Commission, up to 26 weeks may be required.

4.    How much does it cost?

A Planning Fee of $210.00 will be required upon initiation of a Minor Outdoor Dining Permit application, but will not be charged upon renewal unless the Minor Outdoor Dining area is altered.  If a building permit is required, there will be additional Building and Safety Division related fees as well. There are additional fees for ARB review - $259 for staff level review and $1,309 for Board review.  Non-City fees may include fees paid to the Alcohol and Beverage Commission. All City fees are adjusted annually in accordance with the prevailing increases in the local Consumer Price Index (CPI).

You will be also obtaining a license for use of public space on the sidewalk. The monthly license fee will be based on rates established by the City.   As of February 2009, the rates are:

 

5.  Are there design standards?
    

There are specific design and operational standards for outdoor dining areas which are contained in the Outdoor Dining License Application package, including special design and operational standards for outdoor dining areas located on Ocean Avenue, the Third Street Promenade, and the Transit Mall area (Broadway and Santa Monica Boulevard between Ocean Avenue and 5^th Street).  Applications are available at the City Planning public counter.  These standards address the City’s concerns regarding  placement of tables, chairs, umbrellas, heaters, and other patio equipment and furniture, as well as design and installation of barriers.
 

6. Can I serve alcohol?

Yes, subject to City of Santa Monica and ABC requirements.

7. Can I provide entertainment in my outdoor dining area?

Limited use of musical instruments and sound reproduction is permitted, except within the Transit Mall (Santa Monica Boulevard and Broadway between Ocean Avenue and 5^th Street).  Consult the appropriate outdoor dining standards for details.  

8. What are the hours of operation for outdoor dining?

Consult the appropriate outdoor dining standards for details.  

9. Where do I go for additional information?

At the City Planning public counter, Room 111 of City Hall, 1685 Main Street, Santa Monica or call the City Planning Division at (310) 458-8341.