Middletown Accepting Applications For Outdoor Dining

MIDDLETOWN, RI — An executive order passed in Middletown allows for restaurants to apply for permits for outdoor seating ahead of Gov. Gina Raimondo's allowance for restaurants to resume in-person service for outdoor seating only on May 18.

The executive order was passed on Tuesday night.

The order allows restaurants to apply for permits to expand food service and temporary outdoor alcohol service of beer, wine and mixed drinks. Applications may obtained from the town clerk's office via email at wmarshall@middletownri.com or kclancey@middletownri.com, or by calling 401-847- 0009, and may be filed via email. All applicable filing and inspection fees associated with such applications are waived.

The permits must include a plan for the outdoor seating with a capacity not to exceed the limit for the business. It must also show liability insurance that covers the property sought for seating, traffic barriers that protect diners from traffic areas and a parking plan for restaurants that want to covert parking areas into outdoor seating.

A tent permit is also required for restaurants seeking to have a tented area.

Liquor Expansion Applications must be approved by the town council and the outdoor area will require inspection.

Restaurant hours are limited to 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. The outdoor seating expansion is valid only for so long as restrictions to indoor seating apply.

The order remains in effect, unless modified, until Oct. 15.