Outdoor Dining

What is it?

A parklet is built to temporarily extend sidewalk dining out from the curb. Parklets are installed level with the sidewalk and usually cover several parking spaces to provide more outdoor seating. 

See example of a parklet.

Requirements

• Only allowed on streets 25 mph or less where street parking is currently available (30 mph may be considered; see parklet policy).
• Maximum dimensions: 6 feet wide by 20 feet long.
• Placement: in parking areas next to the curb in front of business.
• Must have a continuous edge along the travel lane to protect users from moving traffic.
• Must provide curb-to-parklet Americans with Disabilities Act access.
• Must have a ramp for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access.
• Proof of liability insurance coverage is required for $1 million with the City of Gresham on endorsement.
• Parklets are not allowed in City-owned parking lots, ADA street spaces or loading zones. 

How to apply

• Step 1: Read the parklet policy to ensure you can meet the requirements.
• Step 2: Gather the following documents into one PDF:
  • Location and context: A Google Maps aerial view of the location in front of your business indicating where the parklet will be.
  • Design: A rough sketch of your parklet’s design. You may include an image of the type or similar type that includes dimensions showing the parklet meets size, height and platform requirements. Specify what materials will be used; provide an image and/or data sheet if available.
  • If using heating: A product data sheet for any equipment.
  • Insurance: Proof of coverage for $1 million and endorsement page indicating the City as an insured party. Insurance policy date should be within the last 20 days.
• Step 3: Fill out the parklet application.
• Step 4: Visit our permit application site, register, confirm registration, and apply for a Street Parklet permit. Attach the application and all documents noted above in one PDF before submitting.
• Step 5: Once your application is approved, you may build your parklet and schedule a City inspection and installation of barricades.  

What is it?

Sidewalk café seating sets up tables and chairs on the sidewalk immediately next to a business or in an area adjacent to the street curb. 

See example of sidewalk café seating.

Requirements

• Must be placed along the front length of the business facade.
• Must maintain a 5-foot clear pedestrian path along the sidewalk.
• Umbrellas must be kept 8 feet high above the sidewalk.

How to apply

• Step 1: Gather the following documents:
  • Location and context: A Google Maps aerial view of the location in front of your business and indicate the desired location of the café seating. Include marking the sidewalk area to show there is a 5-foot clear pathway.
  • Insurance: Proof of coverage for $1 million and endorsement page indicating the City as an insured party. Insurance policy date should be within the last 20 days.
• Step 2: Visit our permit application site, register, confirm registration, and apply for a Sidewalk Café permit. The map and the insurance documents are required to submit.
• Step 3: Once your application is approved, you may place your tables/chairs and schedule a City inspection.  

What is it? 

Outdoor dining set up on privately owned property that does not extend into the sidewalk or street. These setups are typically done under a tent or canopy within a private parking lot or other area of the property. 

See example of private property outdoor seating.

Requirements

• Minimum parking and access on the property needs to be maintained. Driveway and clear vision areas of the street cannot be blocked. Contact the Planner on Duty at 503-618-2780 to confirm adequate allowable space before applying. 
• Must obtain property owner approval if applicant is tenant.
• Tents and canopies are not allowed inside a structure.
• Tents and canopies shall maintain a distance of 20 feet from structures, property lines or right of ways.
• Tents and canopies shall be roped, braced and anchored.
• Tents and canopies must be made of fire-resistant material, and must bear a label from manufacturer indicating so, or be treated with an approved flame retardant.
• Decorative materials used in tents shall be flame retardant.
• Post "No Smoking" signs inside and/or outside tent.
• When multiple tents or canopies are arranged or set side by side, the total length shall not exceed 150 feet without a 20-foot fire break.

How to apply

• Step 1: Before applying, contact the Planner on Duty, 503-618-2780 or POD@GreshamOregon.gov, to confirm zoning, parking and access will allow for placement of the area you wish to use for outdoor seating.
• Step 2: Visit our permit application site, register, confirm registration, and apply for a temporary use permit. If you will not be placing a covering above the seating, you only need to apply for a temporary use permit and not a fire permit.

Temporary use permits

Temporary uses are allowed depending on the zoning for the proposed site. Once you confirm with the Planner on Duty that use is allowed, submit your application online.

Fire permits

• Step 1: Review these documents to ensure you will be able to meet the requirements.
  • Tent and membrane structure guide for outdoor dining
  • Heater use inside tents/membrane structures
• Step 2: Complete the fire prevention permit application.
• Step 3: Submit to Gresham Fire as noted on the application.

Fire staff will contact you to follow up on your application and schedule an inspection. 

Yes. However, if you will be serving alcohol, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) requires separating business service areas. Confirm with the OLCC before submitting a parklet application to the City.

No. At this time, the outdoor dining pilot program is only for food service businesses.

No. If there is no covering and only seating, just apply for a temporary use permit. 

No. To ensure pedestrian and traffic safety, the parklet needs to provide a consistent barrier across the length of the parklet.