The City has waived the requirement for an alfresco permit to help local businesses get back up and running as COVID-19 restrictions begin to ease. Following an announcement by Premier Mark McGowan on Sunday, Western Australia will enter phase two of the State’s four-phase roadmap to recovery from 18 May. This will see cafés and restaurants begin to reopen with dine in meal service limited to 20 patrons and the four square metre rule applied.
“We want to help businesses adapt quickly to new patron limits set out by the State Government on Sunday.
“The City was quick to act when restrictions on indoor gatherings were first announced in March by waiving the requirement for an alfresco permit. As restrictions ease in the coming weeks and months, we are making it easier for businesses to expand their floor space and allow for social distancing in their premises.
“Restaurants and cafes can expand their dining area by placing tables outside and retailers can put display tables out the front of their premises.
“The only stipulation is that the City would need to see the business’ public liability insurance and footpaths and other areas would still need to remain accessible to the public.
“Local businesses have faced an enormous challenge over the past few months and we are here to support them as they adapt to this ever changing situation and plan their path to reopening,” said Mayor Dan Bull.
The change is one of a raft of measures put in place by the City to support the local economy through COVID-19. Last week Council voted to cut planning fees for the next six months to help businesses navigate economic uncertainty.
“The City has waived fees associated with starting a home business and change of use applications. If a café would like to shift into retail for example, they can do this easily without paying a fee.
“Food truck owners will not be required to pay for a permit to trade in one of the City’s 12 approved parks, giving them more options to keep their business running while community events remain on hold.
“We understand this is a challenging time for all local businesses and we want to do everything we can to support them. Business owners are invited to contact the City for assistance."