x
Breaking News
More () »

Minneapolis mayor allows restaurants, bars to temporarily expand outdoor seating

The new order follows the state's plan to allow outdoor dining on June 1.
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has issued a new emergency order allowing restaurants and bars in the city to expand outdoor dining into surrounding parking areas and sidewalks.

The mayor's order follows the state of Minnesota's announcement allowing restaurants to reopen for outdoor dining starting on June 1.

Several Minneapolis restaurants were seeking loosened zoning rules from the city following the state's announcement, particularly those with small or non-existent outdoor dining space.

"It is a priority that our bars, restaurants, and other spaces of public accommodation be given every opportunity to attract business in a healthy and safe manner and in accordance with previously issued guidelines," the mayor's order said.

Under the order, Frey is directing city staff to expedite applications for temporary expansions of business premises to include parking spaces and surrounding sidewalks, provided there's enough sidewalk space remaining to meet requirements under the Americans With Disabilities Act.

All fees for temporary expansions are waived under the order, which begins June 1 and continues until further notice.

RELATED: Restaurants beg for help, as cities consider new outdoor zoning policies

RELATED: Restaurants to offer outdoor dining; salons, barbershops to reopen with limitations June 1

KARE 11’s coverage of the coronavirus is rooted in Facts, not Fear. Visit kare11.com/coronavirus for comprehensive coverage, find out what you need to know about the Midwest specifically, learn more about the symptoms, and see what companies in Minnesota are hiring. Have a question? Text it to us at 763-797-7215. And get the latest coronavirus updates sent right to your inbox every morning. Subscribe to the KARE 11 Sunrise newsletter here. Help local families in need: www.kare11.com/give11

The state of Minnesota has set up a hotline for general questions about coronavirus at 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903, available 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

There is also a data portal online at mn.gov/covid19.

Before You Leave, Check This Out