Approval Process (All Patio Types)

We’ve made creating an outdoor patio easier than ever – with clear standards and a simple approval process!

To support downtown vibrancy, patio permit applications and permits within the public right-of-way are offered at no cost.

The Guidelines for Seasonal Downtown Outdoor Patios were developed to support patio installations within the Downtown area, where pre-approved patio types and a coordinated approval process are currently in place. At this time, the program applies to eligible downtown businesses with potential expansion to additional areas in the future.

Guidelines for Seasonal Downtown Outdoor Patios

Safety and Compliance

To ensure safety and compliance, businesses must obtain all necessary approvals before installing a temporary patio. Depending on location, this may include a Development Permit in accordance with the City of St. Albert Land Use Bylaw 18/2024 and, for patios located within the public right-of-way, approvals under the City’s applicable Traffic Bylaw.

Downtown businesses may follow the coordinated application process outlined on the Seasonal Outdoor Patio Program webpage to obtain the necessary permits. City staff are available to help guide applicants through the process. Patios installed without required approvals may be subject to enforcement action under municipal bylaws.

1. Complete the Patio Permit Application

Download and complete the Patio Program Permit Application Form

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Valid City of St. Albert Business License
Proof of $2M Commercial General Liability Insurance naming the City as Additional Insured
Landlord consent (if leased)
Required drawing(s) based on patio type

Drawing Requirement	OPTION 1: Sidewalk Patio	OPTION 2: Expanded Sidewalk Patio with Pedestrian Detour	OPTION 3: Parking Lane Patio
Existing Setup Photo (if unchanged)	✓	✓	✓
Sidewalk Width & Surface Type	✓	✓	✓
Patio Footprint & Dimensions	✓	✓	✓
2-metre Clear Pedestrian Zone Shown	✓	✓	✓
Furniture Layout (tables, chairs, planters, etc.)	✓	✓	✓
Relationship to Building/Property Line	✓	✓	✓
Clearances from Poles, Trees, Hydrants, Utilities, etc.	✓	✓	✓
Entrance/Exit Locations (if relevant)		✓
Pedestrian Detour/Boardwalk Layout		✓
Detour Entrance/Exit Widths & Hardware		✓
Elevation/Side-View Drawing		✓	✓
Fencing Design Details		✓	✓
Accessible Ramp Details (if raised platform)			✓
Driveway/Intersection Setbacks		✓	✓
Location of Umbrellas & Accessories		✓	✓

3. Submit the full Application Package to the City

Once you have prepared the Required Documents, please submit them to the City along with your application:

Option 1 – Sidewalk A or B
- Please submit your full application package to:
  economicdevelopment@stalbert.ca
Option 2 – Expanded Sidewalk Patio with Pedestrian Detour
- Please submit your full application package to:
  development@stalbert.ca
Option 3 – Parking Lane Patio
- Please submit your full application package to:
  development@stalbert.ca

4. City Review Timelines

Option 1 – Typically 2 – 3 business days
Options 2 & 3 – Typically 10 business days required for approval. Installation can take place once the City has received the signed Licence of Occupation.

5. Approval & Installation

Once approved, you may install your patio in accordance with the guidelines.
- For Options 2 & 3, required traffic and pedestrian detours must be in place before installation begins.
City will coordinate barrier placement where required (Options 2 & 3).

6. Seasonal Operation

Patios may operate April 1 to October 31 each year.
- Note: end of season may be influenced by weather and road conditions for traffic controls due to required road clearing. Temporary patios will be removed when snow clearing is required.
A new permit must be obtained annually.
The Permit Holder agrees to the Patio Permit Holder Conditions on page 9 of the Guidelines for Seasonal Downtown Outdoor Patios