Businesses in Peterborough can now apply to take part in the city’s annual downtown patio program.
The initiative, now entering its fifth year, allows restaurants and businesses in the central area to expand outdoor seating and pedestrian space during the warmer months.
Under the program, businesses along George, Water and Charlotte streets may use on-street parking spaces to create additional patio areas. The city will maintain two vehicular travel lanes and cycling lanes on George and Water streets while also expanding pedestrian areas in parts of the downtown.
As part of the plan, Hunter Street West will be reduced to a one-lane, one-way street to allow for larger pedestrian areas and patios, while Charlotte Street will remain a two-way, two-lane road with patios permitted in select parking spaces.
The program is also expanding this year to include businesses in East City along Hunter Street East, allowing patios on portions of city sidewalks.
Decorative fencing and planters will be used to separate patio areas and pedestrian space from vehicle lanes. Reduced speed limits will also be introduced on streets where patios are installed.
Businesses wishing to operate patios on city-owned property must obtain a patio licence, which includes a non-refundable $400 application fee.
City officials say accessibility must be considered when designing patios, and businesses will be expected to take steps to ensure spaces remain accessible to all residents. The city says it will work with licence holders where possible to make improvements based on feedback from business owners and patrons.
Applicants hoping to have patios installed before the Victoria Day long weekend must submit completed applications by April 1, 2026. Applications submitted after that date will be installed based on Public Works availability.
The final deadline to apply for the 2026 patio season is May 29, 2026, though installation timelines may change at the city’s discretion.
