Ventura Adopts Outdoor Dining Ordinance

Ventura restaurateurs may place cafe tables and chairs on city sidewalks to allow patrons to dine outdoors after the Ventura City Council passed a new ordinance Monday.

The council adopted the law allowing outdoor dining on city sidewalks wherever there is a four-foot clearance for pedestrians as well. Restaurant owners are also allowed to have outdoor tables on their own properties.

The ordinance, which becomes effective Oct. 21, was adopted after some restaurant owners approached the city with the idea, city officials said. The city’s zoning code did not address the issue.

Restaurant owners will pay $50 to apply for a sidewalk dining permit and renew it annually. Tables and chairs are required to meet “minimum appearance standards,” to be determined by city officials.