City Planning Commission reviews outdoor dining expansion at Title Raves restaurant

The Depoe Bay Planning Commission meeting on December 11, 2024, focused on a significant proposal to expand the outdoor seating area of the popular Title Raves restaurant. The proposed changes include converting an existing outdoor patio into a covered seating area, which will slightly adjust the parking layout to accommodate the new design.

City planner Zach presented the details of the application, highlighting that the expansion would involve a total of approximately 722 square feet, with the new covered area extending the restaurant's outdoor dining options. The project is subject to the Coastal Shorelands Overlay, which requires adherence to specific visual and erosion-related setbacks. Notably, the existing structure is currently within a visual setback area, prompting the applicant to request a reduction from the standard 25 feet to just 7 feet for the new seating area. Staff expressed support for this exception, deeming the impact on the coastal view negligible.

During the meeting, commissioners sought clarification on the existing structure's compliance with the visual setback regulations, noting that it had been in place prior to the enactment of these rules. The architect representing Title Raves confirmed that the design would maintain the restaurant's current architectural style and materials, ensuring consistency with the existing building.

No public opposition was voiced during the meeting, and the commission moved to close the public hearing without any requests for further testimony. The planning commission is expected to deliberate on the proposal in the coming weeks, with staff recommending approval based on the outlined criteria. This expansion aims to enhance the dining experience at Title Raves while adhering to local regulations, reflecting the community's ongoing support for local businesses.