Dear Paso Robles Restaurant Owner/Operator,

You are receiving this email because you hold a business license for food service in Paso Robles and we’d like to update you on your options for outdoor dining as the weather cools.

Initially, the City has only allowed temporary fixtures, like patio umbrellas, to be used in parklets, sidewalk dining areas, and other temporary outdoor areas as part of the Paso Robles parklet program. With the approach of winter and potential for rain and cooler temperatures, the City will allow more substantial coverings to be used in certain situations to allow businesses to continue outdoor services during inclement weather. The following summary provides overarching guidance for businesses interested in utilizing rain covers and outdoor heating devices during winter months:

Shade/Rain Covers

Canopies/Easy-Ups (no side walls) may be installed over a parklet or outdoor seating area. When exceeding 700 square feet, canopies require (CFC 3103.2) an operational permit from the Paso Robles Fire Department. (As a general reference, the average Easy-Up is approximately 100 square feet). Canopies must be secured to prevent weather related collapse with a minimum of 45lbs resistance on each leg.
Tents may be installed over a parklet or outdoor seating area, but may not have more than one enclosed side per current COVID-19 public health restrictions. Tents exceeding 400 square feet require an operational permit from the Paso Robles Fire Department. Tents must be anchored to manufacturer specification or a minimum of 45lbs per leg; whichever is greater.
Canopies and tents may not be installed over public sidewalks, may not impede a minimum 4-foot clear pedestrian path of travel.
Temporary structures may not be fixed to the pavement or sidewalk surface within the City right-of-way, unless otherwise approved by the City Public Works Department. Emergency access or exit passageways shall be maintained at all times per California Fire Code (CFC 3103.12.8).

Outdoor Heaters

Portable outdoor gas (LPH) heating appliances may be used within parklets and outdoor seating areas, but may not be located beneath or closer than 10 feet to canopies/tents, and 5 feet umbrellas or similar combustible materials per California Fire Code (CFC 603.4.2.1.3).
Paso Robles Fire Department Standards for Storage and Use of Portable LPG Outdoor Heaters: click here to download PDF.
Electric heaters may be utilized in outdoor areas; however, plans for installations of outdoor electric heaters must be reviewed and approved by the City Building Department and Fire Departments. Approved installations must also be inspected by the City Fire Department prior to use.

For additional information about tent or canopy permitting requirements or use of outdoor heaters, you can contact the Paso Robles Fire Department at (805) 227-7560. Requests for tent inspection should be made by the installing vendor a minimum 48 hours in advance and prior use by the public. Inspections can be coordinated by calling the Paso Robles FD Inspection Line (805) 227-7221.

For general questions related to parklets, sidewalk dining and other outdoor services, please visit www.prcity.com/955/Parklets or contact the City of Paso Robles team via email at info@prcity.com.