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(Langford, B.C.) – On Monday, March 15, 2021, City of Langford Council approved an amendment to ‘Sidewalk Use Bylaw No. 1917’ to enable restaurants and retail businesses to expand their operations onto sidewalks, boulevards, and other common areas for up to three years under a single sidewalk use permit.

This change comes from businesses indicating that they would like to invest in exterior capital improvements to support outdoor dining and expanded business capacity. Under the previous bylaw, any permit issued would be subject to an annual renewal. With the amended bylaw, businesses can plan for longer time horizons and therefore better justify their investment in any capital improvements.

“Council has recognized that the implications of the pandemic are still a major challenge for many local businesses.” said Langford Mayor Stew Young. “Through this bylaw amendment, we have cut the red tape to make the process of expanding a patio or storefront this spring simple and efficient, while ensuring the safety of customers and staff.”

Langford staff look forward to helping businesses find creative solutions to realize pre-pandemic revenues that are in alignment with provincial health regulations and the requirements of Work Safe BC. Council has provided the authority to staff to work directly with businesses and approve sidewalk use permit applications in a timely manner.

City staff have already started to contact businesses to proactively assist with further patio and storefront expansions.

Businesses interested in applying for a sidewalk use permit are encouraged to contact Donna Petrie, Manager of Business Development at 250-391-3403 or via email at .