The City of Columbus, Ohio has extended outdoor seating pilot program for restaurants and bars through November.

“We know the Temporary Outdoor Seating Pilot Program has been a lifeline for many of our restaurants and bars during this unprecedented time, so extending the program made good sense,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther.

The program, announced in August, allows restaurants and bars to use right-of-way for temporary outdoor on-street dining areas or expand seating into their parking lots.

Seven restaurants are currently participating in the right-of-way dining, and 16 others have outdoor dining in their parking lots. Public Service and Building and Zoning Services will reach out to participating establishments to see if they want to continue through November.

All temporary outdoor seating areas permitted must comply with the requirements of the pilot and with state and local health requirements intended to slow or prevent the transmission of COVID-19. Tents are allowed in parking areas, but must be open on two sides for ventilation, and combustible heaters are not permitted.

The statement of the Mayor’s office said, “New applications are still being accepted. All applications and/or questions for expansion into the right of way or sidewalks can be submitted online at https://portal.columbus.gov/permits/.  All applications and/or questions to expand patios into parking lots or on private property shall submit a summary email to DLDaniel@Columbus.gov for an initial review.”