Royal Oak Sets New Rules For Street Patios

ROYAL OAK, MI — Royal Oak businesses that put up street patios during the COVID-19 pandemic will have to reapply, meeting certain requirements to maintain street area dining, city officials said.

The city said street patios will now be allowed in a limited capacity from April 1 to Oct. 31, and businesses will have to submit to a formal review to make sure the patio meets building standards and doesn't interfere with stormwater management.

Restaurants and bars that want to operate street patios during the winter months will have to seek additional approval from the city, officials said.

Current street patios have until May 1 to remove all outdoor equipment, unless city officials re-approve their application.

The new rules and changes only apply to street patios that are on public streets or use public parking. Outdoor patios that don't use public streets or parking will still need licenses, but officials said they are not changing those rules.