Eagan To Allow Rapid Approval For Outdoor Dining

EAGAN, MN — The Eagan City Council has temporarily suspended the typical approval processes for restaurants to add outdoor dining areas, recognizing the difficulties facing restaurant owners during the coronavirus crisis.

Last week, Gov. Tim Walz announced plans to allow limited outdoor dining at restaurants and bars starting June 1, but indoor dining will not be allowed.

Rather than the usual 60-day approval process for outdoor space, restaurants in Eagan can now complete a temporary outdoor dining registration form and submit it to the city. Space and seating added via this process are considered temporary and must be removed by Nov. 15, 2020.

"The City Council knows that businesses are making adjustments to survive during COVID-19," city administrator Dave Osberg said in a statement.

"As partners, the City Council adjusted policies, providing flexibility to new operational strategies, such as curbside pickup, for our local service and retail businesses."

Restaurants with alcohol licenses have additional requirements for fencing and insurance.

Information and applications for the temporary permit can be found here.