Framingham Waives Zoning Rules For Outdoor Dining

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Mayor Yvonne Spicer on Monday said that the city would not enforce zoning rules governing outdoor seating for restaurants, a move aimed at helping eateries reopen following the coronavirus pandemic.

Spicer's executive order will stay in place until the City Council makes a larger revision to the city zoning code on outdoor dining. Under Spicer's order, some restaurants may be able to use sidewalks and parking lots as seating areas. Restaurants would still have to get a permit before offering outdoor dining, the order says.

Other Framingham officials are working to help restaurants reopen. The Board of License Commissioners is looking to waive fees for permits, and possibly streamline the application process for restaurants to make changes to seating.

Gov. Charlie Baker is expected to allow restaurants to begin offering outdoor dining in Phase 2 of his post-pandemic reopening plan. The earliest that phase could begin is June 8.

As of Monday, Framingham had 979 active coronavirus cases. Ninety-four people have died over the course of the pandemic, and a total of 1,670 people have tests positive for the virus.

Read more on restaurants reopening:

• Framingham Looks To Ease Burden On Restaurants During Reopening
• Child Care, Retail Stores Prepping To Reopen In Phase Two