Seasonal patios that typically are removed each fall will remain in place over the winter, according to the Township of Scugog.
Businesses with seasonal patios were given the option to remain in place to extend the season and allow opportunities for those restaurants to continue serving customers while adhering to Covid-19 restrictions.
Senior staff evaluated the seasonal patios and concluded that seasonal patios will be allowed to remain in place for the following reasons:
- They have not created any operational issues to date with respect to snow removal
- Parking is not currently an issue due to the Provincial Lockdown and Stay-at-Home Order
- The patios will likely be used again during warmer days in March and April
- The township does not want businesses to incur unnecessary costs during this difficult time
All businesses with a seasonal patio will need to apply/re-apply for the 2021 season.
The township will be permitting other seasonal patios to be installed earlier this year to provide a safer option for dining during the Covid-19 pandemic.