Temporary Outdoor Patio Program - Extended

UPDATE: On May 16, 2022, the City of Richmond City Council approved the ongoing Richmond Patio Program at a Public Hearing. More information on the program and application process can be found on the Richmond Patio Program webpage.

Current TOP Permit Holders
As a response measure to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Richmond introduced the expedited Temporary Outdoor Patio (TOP) program to assist businesses seeking to recover from closures and other impacts caused by the pandemic. The TOP program allowed restaurants, cafes and pubs to quickly expand outdoor seating, either by using private property, parking lots, or approved space on City property.

As of October 31, 2021, the TOP program stopped accepting new applications. On April 11, 2022, City Council approved an extension of valid TOP permits to June 1, 2023. Any liquor service associated with a TOP permit can continue to March 31, 2023, to coincide with the Provincial Policy Directive 22-05 from the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB). This extension is to ensure businesses have enough time to apply for the ongoing Richmond Patio Program without disruption to their operations.

All currently approved TOP permit operators must adhere to and remain in compliance with the TOP Permit Requirements as currently set by the City of Richmond. Those operating with a liquor service under the LCRB Temporary Expanded Service Area (TESA) must also adhere to authorization requirements currently in place through the LCRB.

Ongoing Richmond Patio Program
With the approval of the ongoing Richmond Patio Program, current TOP permit holders who are interested in continuing to have a patio are encouraged to commence the application process as soon as possible and prior to the March 31, 2023 (with liquor service) or June 1, 2023 expiry dates. 

If you have questions, please contact:  

Business Support Centre
Phone: 604-276-4114
Email: businesshelp@richmond.ca.