Invest Clarington

Seasonal Patio Program

Enhance Your Outdoor Dining Experience in Clarington!

Are you a restaurant or café owner looking to expand your dining space and attract more customers? Our Seasonal Patio Program is here to help you create a vibrant and inviting outdoor dining area that complies with all municipal and accessibility standards. Clarington offers two permit options: Sidewalk Patios on municipal right-of-way, and Private Property Patios (i.e. parking lots). 

Two women having lunch on the patio in Newcastle.

Why Join the Seasonal Patio Program?

Increase Your Seating Capacity: Use outdoor space to accommodate more guests, especially during the warmer months. 
Boost Your Revenue: More seating means more customers and increased sales. 
Enhance Customer Experience: Provide a unique and enjoyable dining atmosphere that keeps customers coming back. 
Support Local Economy: Contribute to the lively and welcoming ambiance of Clarington’s downtown and commercial areas.

Program Highlights

Accessible Design: All patios must maintain a minimum passable sidewalk width of 1.8 meters to ensure accessibility for all patrons.
Safety and Compliance: Patios must adhere to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and other municipal regulations. 
Aesthetic Appeal: Design materials should complement the heritage character of Clarington’s downtown areas, with options like planting boxes to enhance visual appeal. 
Operational Hours: Outdoor patio operations are permitted during specified hours, ensuring a balance between business needs and community comfort.