Deadline extended for patios, temporary service areas

Apr 7, 2022 | 3:20 PM Pete McIntyre

Restaurants, bars and liquor manufacturers that have added patios during the pandemic now have more time to apply to make those temporary service areas permanent.

The province is extending temporary extended service area (TESA) approvals by ten months, until March 31, 2023.

That’s an extension from the previous deadline of June 1, 2022, which will also give local authorities more time to update their patio policies.

“Some local governments needed additional time to make the needed policy changes and assess applications for permanent structural changes in their communities,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “This extension will also give businesses more time to apply and prevent the risk of disrupting patio service during the busy summer season.”

TESAs were an interim measure intended to help businesses weather the pandemic, and the government says they have allowed thousands of restaurants and pubs to serve more patrons while complying with health orders, particularly those related to physical distancing and indoor dining.

“The TESA extension is great news for the many B.C. restaurants and bars that have innovated and adapted over the past two years,” said Ian Tostenson, president and CEO, BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association. “After the pandemic downturn, this decision will take one worry off businesses’ plates. As they plan for the future, they can continue to welcome their customers in expanded service areas and benefit from the resulting revenue.”

Businesses are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible, as local governments and First Nations need to evaluate structures and outdoor licensed areas.

Businesses wishing to make their current TESA permanent must apply through the Liquor and Cannabis Licensing Portal for a new outdoor patio permanent structural change (for outdoor TESAs), or a new interior service area permanent structural change (for indoor TESAs).
Permanent approval of expanded service areas must meet all local bylaws and requirements (e.g., related to parking, building codes, and the use of public land).