Yaletown patio

Get a patio permit for a restaurant or cafe

If you're considering serving alcohol on your 2025 summer patio, we strongly encourage you to apply to the LCRB now for a new permanent licensed area (in other words, to extend your ‘red line’ to include your patio).

What's happeningSummer 2025 patio season

New patio applications

  • If you are planning to apply for a new summer patio location for your restaurant, email us now at patios@vancouver.ca to get information on how to apply.
  • If you plan to serve alcohol on your new summer patio and have an existing liquor licence, you will need to apply to the LCRB for an expanded licensed area (for example, to extend your red line to include a patio). As part of your LCRB application, you will need an approved patio drawing from us. Staff will work with you to get the documentation you need.

Renewing a previous summer patio permit

  • If you plan to install the same patio as last summer, no action is needed at this time.
  • Renewals for summer patio permits will begin March 1, 2025.

Patio permit review

We are working on program updates, including:

  • Expanded design options
  • Accessibility guidelines
  • A fee review
  • Simplified application requirements

If approved by Council, the new program will begin implementation for the Summer 2026 patio season.

Types of patio permits

Private property

Private patio permit

Businesses can install patios on private property.

Public property

Find the right permit for your business. Permits are available based on patio type and location OR permit length and application process.

Curbside patio permit

Businesses can apply to use adjacent parking spaces as a patio. Liquor may be served depending on the business type and licence.

Large sidewalk patio permit

Restaurants, cafes, distilleries, and breweries can apply for a large sidewalk patio permit. Liquor service restrictions apply.

Small sidewalk patio permit

Permit allows businesses, including non-food service establishments (like hairdressers or a pharmacy), to have a small patio on the sidewalk.

Types of permits for patios on public property (streets and sidewalks)

Is your patio on private property? Review the types and requirements for a private patio permit

History of the patio programs

Apply for extended patio hours

Apply online to extend operating hours at your restaurant from 11pm to 1am during April to October.

Questions?

Email: patios@vancouver.ca