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Pontiac codifies outdoor‑dining standards in liquor and business code; requires permits and insurance
Summary
The council adopted two ordinances that establish standards for outdoor cafes and outdoor liquor service, including barriers with planters or 36–42‑inch fencing, ADA access rules, seasonal operation limits, permit requirements and insurance (city additional insured $1,000,000; dram‑shop coverage $500,000).
Pontiac council members adopted two ordinances to codify outdoor‑dining standards: 20260007 (amending Chapter 4 — alcoholic beverages) and 20260008 (added to Chapter 10 — businesses for non‑liquor outdoor cafes). Staff told council the ordinances incorporate standards previously discussed in committee and in a liquor‑license addendum.
Key provisions read into the record include: - Barrier design: barriers must include planters attached to a 36–42‑inch fence or built planters; if on the right‑of‑way the installation must be structurally consistent with the area and cannot exceed the business frontage width. - Operation: seasonal April–October; structures removed November–March. - Accessibility: if on a curb line, installations must be flush with the curb or provide an ADA ramp; sidewalk installations must maintain ADA clearance. - Amenities/limits: limited signage (menu board only), commercial‑grade furnishings, allowed portable heaters/candles subject to fire‑chief approval and inspection, lighting restrictions to avoid nuisance lighting. - Permits and insurance: a permit from building and zoning will be required; the city must be listed as additional insured with at least $1,000,000 and dram‑shop insurance of at least $500,000 was recommended.
Council voted separately to adopt both ordinances; staff said they will post the guidance on the city's website while the online code is updated.
