Pittsburgh looks to continue allowing businesses to use outdoor space for dining, displays

Pittsburgh City Council is considering legislation that would allow restaurants and retailers to continue using sidewalks and streets for outdoor seating or shopping, as many have during the pandemic.

The legislation, sponsored by Councilman Bobby Wilson, would allow businesses to apply for permits to use sidewalks and roadways to expand their outdoor footprint, something that began when covid-19 restrictions put a heightened emphasis on outdoor space.

While most pandemic restrictions have lifted, restaurants and other businesses are still struggling in the economic downturn. The legislation said continuing to allow businesses to use outdoor use could help them stay afloat.

“The city recognizes that outdoor dining and retail activities can be in the interest of economic development, vibrancy and attractive places,” the legislation says.

The Department of Mobility and Infrastructure would issue the licenses, which would allow businesses to use space on public sidewalks or streets for restaurant seating, retail displays or food preparation.

If applicants want to set up outside a building they don’t own, they would need written permission from the property owner. Business also would need to submit plans outlining their use of the outdoor space, hours of operation, the business’s certificate of occupancy and a certificate from their insurance company.

Any outdoor dining or retail activities located near an intersection would need to keep space within 10 feet of the curb line clear. The outdoor dining or retail space could not be within 15 feet of a transit stop or curb cut, or within 5 feet of a fire hydrant.

Businesses using space on a sidewalk that is up to 10 feet wide would need to leave at least 4 feet of sidewalk unobscured. Businesses using a sidewalk that’s wider than 10 feet would have to leave at least half of the sidewalk free.

Several other stipulations include requirements that would prohibit businesses from bolting down furniture into roads or sidewalks, ensure furniture is at least 18 inches from the edge of a curb and limit outdoor dining seats to no more than 30 per restaurant.

If passed, the measure would go into effect 30 days after the mayor signed it. The measure could be ready for a final vote in as soon as two weeks.