How to Get a Patio Permit for Your Cafe or Restaurant in Vancouver, BC

Outdoor dining has become a must-have for cafes and restaurants across Vancouver. Whether you’re in Mount Pleasant, Commercial Drive, Kitsilano, or Gastown, a patio can transform your space and create a more inviting, comfortable experience for guests. But before you serve that first cappuccino or cocktail outdoors, you need the right patio permit.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to get a patio permit in Vancouver and how Tiger Ring Construction can help you design and build a space that meets your vision—and the City’s requirements.

©Daily Hive Vancouver: Best patios in Vancouver you need to check out this season
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Adding a patio isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a strategic move for cafes and restaurants looking to thrive in a competitive market. Here’s what a patio can offer:

• Increased Revenue: More seats = more customers. Outdoor dining can boost your table turnover without changing your indoor layout.
• Seasonal Appeal: Vancouverites love patio season. Tap into spring and summer traffic with cozy, stylish outdoor setups.
• COVID-Safe Seating: Even post-pandemic, many customers still prefer open-air options for peace of mind.
• Event Hosting: A patio allows for pop-up events, live music, or special brunches that draw attention and foot traffic.
• Brand Experience: A custom patio design reflects your brand and gives your business a strong street presence.

Whether you run a coffee shop with grab-and-go seating or a full-service bistro, a patio can be one of the most profitable upgrades you make.

Vancouver offers different patio permits depending on the space and location of your business. Here’s a quick overview:

1. Sidewalk Patio Permit

• For patios built on the sidewalk in front of your storefront.
• Requires clear pedestrian access and safety barriers.
• Ideal for small cafés or eateries with minimal frontage.

2. Curbside Patio (Pop-Up Style)

• Located in a parking lane adjacent to the curb.
• Usually seasonal (March to October), often requiring removable structures.
• Great for high-traffic streets and compact storefronts.

3. Private Property Patio

• On your own lot—backyards, courtyards, rooftops.
• More design freedom, but often requires building permits in addition to a patio permit.
• Ideal for restaurants with larger premises or unique layouts.

Each option has specific requirements around space, design, accessibility, and safety. That’s where professional design support is key.

Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Review the City’s Guidelines

Start by visiting the official City of Vancouver Patio Permit page. Confirm your location is eligible and determine which type of permit you’ll need.

2. Prepare Your Site Plan and Design

You’ll need to submit a professional drawing of your proposed patio. This should include:

• Patio dimensions
• Seating layout
• Access routes and barriers
• Connection to your main entrance
• Any furniture, umbrellas, fencing, or heaters

*Tiger Ring Construction can handle this entire process—from concept sketches to permit-ready drawings.

3. Complete the Online Application

Submit your application through the City of Vancouver’s online portal. Be prepared to upload:

• Business license
• Proof of insurance (naming the City as additional insured)
• Design and site plan
• Photos of the current space

4. City Review & Approval

Once submitted, the City will review your application. They may request revisions or clarifications. Approval timelines can vary, so start early—especially before patio season begins.

5. Build Your Patio

After approval, you’re ready to build. Your patio must meet all construction, safety, and accessibility requirements.

Need help? Tiger Ring Construction can handle the entire patio build—from permits to final touches—so you can focus on your business.

To keep your application smooth and stress-free, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Submitting unclear or incomplete drawings
• Using furniture or materials not allowed by city guidelines
• Not providing enough clearance for pedestrians or wheelchair access
• Missing permit requirements for heaters, awnings, or lighting
• Starting construction before you receive official approval

We help Vancouver cafe and restaurant owners turn their outdoor spaces into income-generating assets. Whether you need a simple sidewalk setup or a full custom rooftop dining area, our team brings experience, speed, and attention to detail.

We offer:

• Permit drawings and submission support
• Custom design tailored to your brand
• Barrier and seating installation
• Weather-resistant materials and fixtures
• Fast turnaround and quality construction

Our work is built to last and designed to impress—just ask our happy clients across Vancouver.

Ready to boost your business with a beautiful outdoor space? Get in touch with Tiger Ring Construction for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through the process and handle the details, so you can focus on great food and happy customers.

Contact Us Today to get started on your café or restaurant patio project in Vancouver.