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San Rafael cuts streetery fees and waives deposit to revive outdoor dining
Summary
Council approved reductions to streetery and sidewalk dining fees, removed a deposit requirement and added an annual inspection fee to encourage restaurant participation in downtown outdoor dining.
San Rafael — The City Council on Aug. 18 approved changes to streetery and sidewalk dining fees intended to encourage more downtown outdoor dining and reduce administrative barriers for small businesses.
Why it matters: Downtown outdoor dining is presented by staff as an economic-vitality tool that increases pedestrian activity and supports local restaurants. Staff said fees and insurance requirements implemented after the pandemic were a barrier to participation and that lowering certain costs and streamlining review would bring more businesses back to outdoor…
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