Solana Beach approves second reading of outdoor dining ordinance

The Solana Beach City Council unanimously voted Jan. 14 for an ordinance for sidewalk cafes and outdoor dining areas that have been popular in the community since the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to a council agenda report, the ordinance “continues to support the desire by the businesses, business districts, Chamber of Commerce and the public to maintain temporary outdoor dining activities.” It includes “expanded definitions of dining establishments, outdoor eating areas and sidewalk cafes.”

The city’s regulations allow businesses to apply for a conditional use permit with details about how and where they will use up to 200 square feet for outdoor dining.

“Additional outdoor dining area may be allowed at 50% for each additional square foot of public use area above 200 square feet,” according to the agenda report. “The draft language would allow these outdoor dining areas and sidewalk cafes to be located on public sidewalks, on adjacent offstreet public parking areas, as well as on private off-street parking spaces.”

Properties that have less than 10 parking spaces are not allowed to eliminate any of the parking spaces to accommodate outdoor dining. Properties with more than 10 can eliminate three spaces, or 20% of total spaces, whichever is lower.

Under the ordinance, businesses are also required to submit a cleaning plan that describes procedures for regular trash removal and general area cleanup.

“Additionally,” the agenda report adds, “the outdoor eating areas shall be cleaned/washed (with proper collection and disposal of any excess water so that it does not reach the stormwater system) on a weekly basis. These businesses may be subject to City inspection and, if needed, more frequent cleaning may be required to ensure compliance with the regulations.”