Council orders temporary moratorium on parklets, asks city attorney to clarify permit rules

The Richmond City Council unanimously directed the City Attorney's Office to draft a temporary moratorium and proposed amendments to Richmond Municipal Code Section 14.46.090 governing parklets and related uses in the public right of way.

Councilmembers who sponsored the item said it grew from implementation problems at the Point Richmond parklet and from questions about how two parallel permit processes interact. The motion asked staff to address: inconsistencies between building permits and easement processes; siting and permitted locations; whether the standard two‑year authorization properly accounts for the cost of constructing parklets; the parking impacts of converting curbside spaces to parklets; and the need to improve clarity on nonexclusive use by a single business or its patrons.

"I personally really like parklets," Councilmember Robinson said, urging regular outdoor culture while saying the ordinance needs clearer language so the city, businesses and neighbors understand rights and responsibilities. Supporters and members of the business community urged the city to clarify long‑term permit options and minimize legal ambiguity before more investments are made.

The council approved the direction to draft a temporary moratorium and return with ordinance language no later than October 2025; the vote was unanimous.