Outdoor Dining Program: Spring Cleaning

Hello Portland Business Owners,

As the first blossoms appear across the Rose City, spring season has arrived which means it's "Spring Cleaning" time. Along with seasonal permit renewals, it's time to ensure your outdoor installations are ready for the busier sunny days ahead.

Sunny and not so Sunny Days Ahead

Now that April has arrived, we have already seen a good mix of both heavy rain and bright sunshine! Here are a few essential things to keep in mind while doing routine cleaning and maintenance to your street seat.

• Stormwater flow: Street Seat structures require a stormwater channel running along the curb with wire mesh fixed to both ends of the structure allows water to pass through, preventing puddling and standing water. Ensure both the mesh exterior and the channel beneath the platform are thoroughly cleaned-keeping them clear helps prevent heavy buildup that can lead to flooding or water pooling.

• Clean debris, leaves, and litter: Keep the area surrounding your space clear of debris, leaves, and litter by sweeping, pressure washing and blowing debris to minimize buildup. This area is defined as 10 feet on either end of a Street Seat area and the entire width of the sidewalk for a Sidewalk Café. Near the Street Seat, rinse out and clean debris, leaves, and litter from the area around and under the platform as needed.
  
• Transparent materials: Outdoor plastic coverings can gradually lose their clarity due to a combination of environmental stressors. Sun exposure can cause yellowing and haze, while vehicle exhaust and air pollution leave behind stubborn films that dull the surface. Rain and humidity can deposit minerals or encourage mildew, and constant temperature changes create tiny cracks that trap dirt. Additionally, wind-driven debris like dust and sand scratches the surface over time, scattering light and making once-clear materials appear cloudy and worn. While cleaning, please ensure that any materials above 42" from the street level are fully transparent and clean. Proper visibility will ensure that all Right of Way users are safe.
  

• Structural maintenance: During the rainy season, outdoor dining structures are exposed to moisture and environmental wear. Materials such as wood, metal, and composite surfaces can deteriorate and absorb water, causing materials to corrode, weaken, discolor, or degrade over time. To preserve the structure's integrity, regularly inspect all materials and replace any damaged panels or components. Applying weather-resistant sealants, coatings, or protective treatments can help prevent damage and extend the lifespan of your outdoor dining structure.
  

Seasonal Street Seat Permit is back again!

Seasonal Street Seat permit applications are open again! From May 1st to October 31^st, this short-term permit that allows businesses to convert available parking into seating. To see a full list of details, please refer to our Design Guidelinesor reach out to [email protected].

Outdoor Dining Permit Renewals

It's time for another round of renewals!

Here are a few questions to add to your renewal checklist:

• Is your Outdoor Dining Permit displayed clearly in your front window?
• Is your insurance up to date for the new permit cycle?
• Has your property ownership changed-and if so, have you submitted an updated Consent Form?
• Planning to vacate your permitted space?
• Has your business changed ownership?

If you need a copy of your permit, or need to make modifications to your existing permit, please contact us!

Share your Spring Setup

We want to see how you're prepping for the season. Please email us with photos if you'd like your business to be considered for our next Business Spotlight. We love highlighting the creative ways Portlanders use the public right-of-way to build and enhance their community.

For more information:

PBOT Outdoor Dining Team

503-823-4026

[email protected]