HomeMy WebLinkAboutOutdoor Customer Service AreasContact: Jennifer Bennerotte, Communications Director
Phone 952-833-9520 • Fax 952-826-0389 • EdinaMN.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City Manager Issues Order Allowing Temporary Outdoor Customer Service Areas in Edina
Edina, Minn., May 27, 2020 – To allow businesses to better operate during the COVID-19 pandemic when social distancing is necessary and comply with the Stay Safe MN Plan, City Manager
Scott Neal has issued an order allowing businesses to temporarily create and expand commercial space.
Under the order, a business may establish temporary drive-up or drive-thru areas; outdoor customer ordering, waiting or pick-up areas; or customer seating or service areas on property
it owns or leases or on public property. Outdoor sidewalk seating is allowed to extend past the business’ storefront with the consent of the adjacent property owner.
The temporary outdoor use may occur in parking areas or green spaces without the need for a variance if it is on property owned or leased by the business. If it is on public property,
including public easements or right-of-way, the business must receive a permit from the City. All outdoor customer seating areas located on public property must comply with applicable
guidelines and requirements provided by the State of Minnesota. The business is responsible for collecting and removing waste from the seating area and maintaining the area in a sanitary
condition.
“The City initiated this relaxation of local regulations because we want to help Edina restaurants get restarted,” Neal said. “They are an important component of our local economy and
necessary to maintaining the social fabric of our town.”
In March, the Edina City Council declared a local Peace Time Emergency. The declaration invokes the City’s disaster plan and authorizes other appropriate community containment and mitigation
strategies such as this order.
For more information, visit EdinaMN.gov or call Economic Development Manager Bill Neuendorf, 952-826-0407 or bneuendorf@EdinaMN.gov.
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