MINNEAPOLIS — Editor's note: The video at the top of this article was published Dec. 19, 2020:
Businesses in Minneapolis can expand to more areas on their own property this winter, as part of an emergency regulation announced by the City of Minneapolis today.
The goal here, according to the city, is to allow for less crowding of people during the high number of coronavirus cases brought on by the omicron variant.
The emergency regulation means businesses can build these extra structures for no fee during the remainder of the city's public health emergency. It also allows businesses an extra 45 days post-emergency to take down the outdoor areas.
One of the caveats of the regulation is that it must be on a business's property, and it can't block the way of the public on streets and sidewalks. Much like we saw previously with expanded outdoor dining.
“Many of our most beloved local businesses and restaurants have shouldered an incredible weight as we navigate each new phase of this pandemic,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “Winter patio dining is not only a quintessential Minneapolis tradition, it’s an important way to continue supporting Minneapolis restaurants’ ability to keep moving while keeping patrons and employees safe and healthy.”
Even though the fees are waived, prospective businesses must contact fire inspection services with the city to obtain a permit.
WATCH: What to expect while dining out during patio season this spring: