Restaurants Could Get OK to Expand Outdoor Seating

Borough restaurants with corner properties may expand their outdoor seating if the council gives the final approval next Tuesday.

The Planning Board reviewed the proposed amendment Thursday to an existing zoning code ordinance that would allow properties that qualify to put tables and chairs along the side of the properties as well as in front.

The board approved the amendment adding one recommendation that the council consider extending the time frame from April 1 to Oct. 31. By extending beyond the summer months, restaurants which qualify can have  a larger window to offer outdoor seating as the weather tends to be nice during early spring and fall, suggested Nick Melfi, construction code official.

The  to no further back than 50 feet from the Boulevard and no closer than 5 feet from a residential entrance. It also specifies that if the side of the restaurant faces a side-street only half of the sidewalk could be used.  

Qualifying restuarants would need to apply for a sidewalk cafe license and comply with any other guidelines before they could off outdoor seating, borough attorney Ralph Chandless told Patch previously.

A final public hearing on the amended ordinance is expected Tuesday, July 10.