Outdoor Dining Options Expanded In HoCo With Temporary Permits

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Restaurants and bars in Howard County that do not have outdoor table service or need to expand their existing outdoor table service are able to apply for a temporary use permit from the country.

If the proposed outdoor seating is located on private property, businesses may provisionally set up and begin using the outdoor seating; however, Howard County may suspend, revoke or require modifications to the arrangement should conditions that conflict with Howard County guidelines or safe operations arise, the county noted. If the proposed outdoor seating is located on county property, businesses must wait for their permit to be issued before setting up new seating.

Businesses can apply starting Thursday at https://accela1.howardcountymd.gov/citizenaccess/.

“We recognize the unique challenges of our restaurants and bars and created this expedited process to allow more businesses to reopen under current conditions,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball in a statement. “Howard County has a robust restaurant industry, and we’re committed to creating systems throughout this crisis that support their ability to serve their customers and remain safe and healthy.”

Businesses must follow all requirements of applicable executive orders and requirements and guidance issued by local, state and federal authorities. Continued outdoor table service requires approval of an application and the issuance of all applicable permits. Permits are temporary and applicable during the state of emergency.

Howard County officials worked with the county liquor board to extend on-premises alcohol consumption. This collaboration prevents restaurants and bars from needing to seek multiple permits. The liquor board added the following amendment to its rules: “During the current state of emergency related to COVID-19, Licensees may apply for a temporary extension of premises for on premises consumption in an outdoor serving area on a form provided by Howard County without the requirement of public notice, public hearing, or liquor board application.”

“This is another big step forward to allow more restaurants to open up and expand their operations,” said Larry Twele, Howard County Economic Development Authority CEO, in a statement. “This will put more employees back to work while providing residents a safe way to enjoy their favorite dining options.”