Private patio permits for downtown businesses
If your business is in the Downtown Wrenford Business Improvement Area and you want to seat customers outside on your own property, you need a private patio permit. This permit covers patios that stay on private property. If your patio extends onto the sidewalk, you also need a separate sidewalk patio permit.
Types of patio permits
Permanent patio permit
Choose this if you want your outdoor seating to run year-round. You only apply once, but you must renew the development permit every year. The total number of guests on your patio cannot exceed the limit set by your occupancy permit. Adding a permanent patio may require extra washrooms or exit upgrades under the Ontario Building Code.
Summer patio permit
Choose this for seasonal outdoor seating from April 1 to October 31. You may move up to 50% of your indoor seats outside. The patio must be removed by November 1. You must reapply each year. If you apply for a permanent patio in the same year, you will get a credit toward the permanent permit fee.
Requirements and restrictions
Follow these rules to keep your patio safe and accessible for everyone.
- Clear sightlines and access: Do not block entrances or exits. Keep aisles wide enough for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Railings and barriers: If you serve alcohol, the patio must be outlined by a railing or planter between 0.75 metres and 1 metre tall. Chain-link or mesh fencing is not allowed.
- No walls or roofs: Patios must remain open. Curtains, solid walls, and permanent roofs are not permitted.
- No live entertainment: Amplified music, broadcasting, or live performances are not allowed. Keep noise at a level that does not disturb neighbours.
- Service hours: End service and move patrons inside by 11:00 p.m. unless your business licence or liquor permit says otherwise.
- Heaters: Portable propane heaters are allowed. Hardwired electric heaters require an electrical permit. Propane tanks must be stored in a locked, vented outdoor area when not in use.
- Umbrellas and awnings: Allowed with a separate permit. Single-post umbrellas cannot be attached to railings or extend past your property line.
- Decking: Decks must be wheelchair accessible. Any structure more than 600 millimetres above the ground requires drawings signed by a structural engineer.
Liquor service and insurance
You may serve alcohol on your patio only if you hold a valid liquor permit and have approval from the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB). If you change your service area, you must update your permit first. Your insurance certificate must include host liquor liability coverage.
Design drawings
Submit your patio plans as 2D drawings in PDF or JPEG format. Include the following details:
- Proposed patio layout with seating arrangement
- Dimensions of all aisles and furniture
- Location of all exits and accessible tables
- Side and front elevations
- Interior washroom layout (male, female, unisex, or universal)
- Clearance around fire department sprinkler connections
Detailed drawings help speed up the review process.
Fees and how to apply
Pay your fees online or by cheque after receiving your application confirmation email.
- Permanent patio permit: $1,200.00 development permit fee (plus building permit fees based on construction value)
- Summer patio permit: $400.00 development permit fee
To apply, complete the private patio application form and checklist, attach your drawings, and submit everything to the Planning & Development office. You can also mail your package to 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1.
For questions about patio permits or to request a pre-consultation meeting, contact the Downtown BIA office at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100.