Downtown Outdoor Patio License

What is the Outdoor Patio License?

Any business wanting to use the sidewalk or street within the pedestrian mall (100, 200, and 300 block of Castro Street) in the Downtown area must obtain an Outdoor Patio License each year from the Department of Public Works. Current license agreements expire on June 30, 2025. 

 What is the Castro Pedestrian Mall?

The Castro Pedestrian Mall covers Castro Street between:

• 100 block: From the east leg of West Evelyn Avenue to Villa Street
• 200 block: From Villa Street to West Dana Street
• 300 block: From West Dana Street to California Street

This pedestrian mall was established by City Council on October 25, 2022. It is part of a plan to transition the street closure into a more permanent pedestrian mall. For more information, click here to visit the official website.

Outdoor Patio Standards and Guidelines

City Council approved Standards and Guidelines for Outdoor Patio Program, which provide guidance to participating businesses on permitted activities, layouts, allowable furniture, and more.  These guidelines help businesses set up outdoor spaces in a way that aligns with the city's vision for a vibrant downtown. 

How to apply for or renew an Outdoor Patio License

     1.  Review the Requirements:

 Before applying, ensure you've reviewed the Outdoor Patio Standards and Guidelines and the Outdoor Patio License Application Checklist.

      2. Prepare Your Site Plan:

The site plan for your outdoor patio must not exceed 750 square feet and should detail the number of tables and chairs.  For example, see a Site Plan Sample.  For renewals, if you are not making changes to your existing site plan, you do not need to resubmit a site plan.

      3. Submit Your Application Online:

Create an account and apply for your Outdoor Patio License (new or renewal) online through ePermitsMV.  For instructions, see How to use ePermitsMV. 

• For new applications, select “Outdoor Patio License” and upload the required documents.
• For renewals, select “License Renewal” and update your business information along with any necessary documents.

     4. After Submission:

You’ll be notified if any documents are missing or if additional information is needed. Once your documents are complete, you’ll receive an invoice for the application fee through ePermitsMV.

     5. Review and Payment:

After payment of the application fee, the City will review your application to ensure it meets all requirements. You’ll then receive approval, a draft license agreement, and an invoice for the annual rent via ePermitMV.

     6. Installation and Use:

• For new licenses: Once the annual rent is paid and the license agreement is signed, City staff will install a fence around your licensed patio area. You may begin using your patio following the guidelines.
• For renewals: You have until June 30 each year to renew. After this date, the City will remove previously installed fences if the renewal hasn’t been completed.

Note: The processing and installation time is estimated to take 5 weeks after receiving a completed application.

 Outdoor Patio License Application Process

Annual License Details

The Outdoor Patio License is an annual agreement with the following structure:

• One-time application fee
• Annual flat rental fee per square foot (no proration)

Annual rent must be paid, and the annual license agreement must be fully signed by June 30 for businesses to begin/continue operating their patio area each year. For new license agreements, City staff will install the necessary fencing around your licensed area for outdoor patio use.

If I already have a license, do I need to get a new license agreement?

Yes.  The license agreement is for a 1-year term.  Businesses will need to apply for a license renewal and submit updated required documents online via ePermitMV. Please note that this is an updated process on a new system. Businesses will need to obtain new license agreements each year and pay the annual rent for the new year based on the current fee schedule.

Where can I find the application forms and fees?

• All application forms are available on the Downtown Outdoor Patio License Forms page.
• Find the current Application and Annual Rental Fees here.

When can I start operating in the outdoor patio area?

You can start operating only after:

1. Obtaining an approved license
2. The City installs the necessary patio fence

Note: The City will only install fences for businesses that have executed license agreements.

Do I need to coordinate with the City to install my outdoor dining furniture?

Businesses must use furniture that meets the Outdoor Patio Standards and Guidelines. Furniture that is broken, bent, or non-compliant will not be allowed.

 There is a tree within the proposed space, will the City continue to care for that?

Yes, the City will continue to maintain any trees within outdoor patio spaces.

For more questions, please contact us at realestate@mountainview.gov for additional information.