The City of Chicago has released new guidelines for fall and winter outdoor dining. With so many restaurants predicted to close, these guidelines may be lifelines to make it to phase 5. All restaurants and bars must have a sidewalk café permit, an outdoor patio license, or an expanded outdoor dining permit.
Structures must be weighted and secured to the ground, but restaurant owners are not allowed to drill into city-owned sidewalks. Tents and other temporary structures are allowed with restrictions, such as a required 50% air flow allowance.
Electric heaters are allowed if they are installed by a licensed contractor. Gas heaters are allowed in uncovered areas. Additional regulations about spacing and timed shut off’s apply to heating apparatuses.
