Seattle Street Use Permits Extended Through October 2021

For some small restaurants, like Cafe Turko, outdoor seating is the only way to accommodate enough diners to support staying open during the pandemic. Photo by Adrian Laney, Jun ’20

On October 21^st, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan announced that temporary street use permits generally issued by the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) are being automatically extended through October 31^st, 2021. These permits, given for free during the COVID-19 pandemic, allow small businesses to expand outside operations. These permits include sidewalk café and curb spaces, as well as street closure permits. As the weather turns colder (and wetter) the City has added tent permits and heating permits, issued by the Seattle Fire Department.

“At the City, we’re committed to helping our small businesses safely and feasibly re-open and sustain operations even as it gets rainy and cold.” said Mayor Durkan, “That’s why we’re extending our free street use permits for over a year, and reducing barriers to access so small businesses can stay open outside in a way that’s safe and comfortable for their customers.”

Seattle City Councilmember Dan Strauss thanked the Mayor’s team for these programs, and setting them in place quickly. “Café Streets should be a permanent feature in Seattle. Today’s extension is another step in that direction – to test what works and what doesn’t work for businesses, neighborhoods, and people over the next year.” Strauss, who represents District 6 which includes West Fremont, added, “We will get through this pandemic together and Café Streets are one way we thrive during this time.”

Expanded outdoor seating areas, like at Bar House, can now be covered and heated, without a costly permit fee. Photo by Adrian Laney, Aug ’20

To date, SDOT has issued 151 free street use permits, including eleven blocks that have been opened for small businesses in neighborhoods across Seattle. For more information, including how to schedule an applicant coaching session, visit the SDOT website (click here,) or contact publicspace@seattle.gov

In addition, Seattle Fire will immediately begin issuing free, 90-day tent permits. These permits require businesses to align their practices with SFD regulations, especially being in compliance with Seattle fire code. Free heating permits will also be issued to businesses operating outdoors due to COVID-19, with outdoor dining equipment allowed to remain outside 24/7. The City will provide more information about these new initiative in the coming weeks.