Winston-Salem Restaurants Given More Options For Outdoor Dining

The city is temporarily allowing restaurants to expand their outdoor dining options, as long as patrons can maintain social distancing.

Establishments can set up additional seating in privately-owned parking lots, and may also use sidewalk space in front of adjacent buildings.

Business owners can apply for temporary outside dining permits, and will need to get permission from the property landlords and tenants.

City officials say the new provisions are limited to the central business district, where public sidewalks are wide enough to accommodate both diners and pedestrians.

The regulations are meant to remain in place during Phase Two of the state's reopening plans. Standard dining permits will be required 10 days after Phase Two ends.

Earlier this month, Greensboro City Council approved a measure temporarily allowing restaurants to apply for special permits to offer expanded outdoor dining options.