Bel Air extends temporary outdoor dining rules through September, restores normal rules for tents; Feb. 18 public hearing scheduled

The Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners voted Feb. 3 to receive Resolution No. 12-45-25, which would continue the town’s temporary allowance for outdoor dining features (tables, chairs, umbrellas) through Sept. 30, 2025, while discontinuing the pandemic-era blanket exemption that had allowed temporary structures such as tents to remain without current permitting.

Town staff explained that the COVID-related code moratoria that facilitated expanded outdoor dining were set to expire March 31, 2025, under Resolution 12-21-24. Staff recommended suspending only the temporary-use-permit provisions that allow outdoor dining (to give businesses a “soft landing”) while allowing code enforcement for temporary structures such as tents, and for outdoor entertainment provisions, to return to normal after March 31.

Mr. Krantz (town staff) said staff recommends suspending the temporary-use limitations for outdoor dining until Sept. 30, 2025, so businesses that rely on outdoor service have six months to transition to permanent solutions. At the same time, other parts of the moratorium — notably the tent exemption — would be ended; tents would require a building permit and inspections and would generally be allowed for 180 days per permit in a 12-month period. Mr. Klein noted that tent permits would be subject to fire marshal inspection and other safety checks.

Public comment reflected business and neighborhood concerns. Tim Silver, general manager of Independent Brewing Company (IBC), said tents were instrumental during COVID, allowed the brewery to rehire staff and host community events, and that his business supports a limited extension and a short transition period. Donna Dickey and others urged the town to press property owners of derelict buildings to proceed with planned redevelopment tied to grant funding rather than letting temporary arrangements persist.

Commissioners discussed noise concerns from amplified outdoor music and special events; staff noted that provisions related to outdoor entertainment would return to pre-COVID regulation and that special events are limited to a total of 30 days per year. Commissioners asked staff to schedule a public hearing; staff recommended Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. to gather public input.

The board voted to receive the resolution for public hearing. Commissioner Taylor moved to receive Resolution 12-45-25; Commissioner Chance seconded. Vote record: Commissioner Rutledge — aye; Commissioner Chismar — aye; Commissioner Taylor — aye; Commissioner Chance — aye; Chair (Mayor Edding) — aye. The motion passed unanimously.

Key clarifications provided during the meeting: the prior resolution that extended COVID-era allowances (Resolution 12-21-24) expires March 31, 2025; the soft-landing extension preserves outdoor dining features until Sept. 30, 2025; tents may remain only under a new permit (180 days) with inspections; special events (including bands) are limited to 30 days per calendar year and amplified outdoor entertainment will be regulated under pre-COVID rules once the moratorium portions expire.