Brick Eases Outdoor Dining Rules For Restaurants

BRICK, NJ — The Brick Township Council approved an ordinance Tuesday that makes it easier for restaurants to set up outdoor dining, in hopes of helping them weather the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

Restaurants and bars have been limited to takeout or delivery service since March 16, when Gov. Phil Murphy issued the first shutdown of businesses to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

In recent days, New Jersey has begun to loosen restrictions, opening parks, and increasing the number of people permitted in gatherings. Murphy has said he would release hard dates and specifics on New Jersey's plans to reopen its economy, but businesses across the state have been urging him to give more specifics. Read more: Gov. Murphy: 'Hard Dates' For NJ Coronavirus Reopening (UPDATE)

Brick Mayor John G. Ducey said the ordinance passed Tuesday is designed to help restaurants get off to a better start when they can go back to dine-in service.

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"It is likely that when restaurants begin reopening that there will be social distancing rules in place that will reduce the number of available seats," Ducey said. "This ordinance will give restaurants the opportunity to increase the number of guests they can serve."

The ordinance simplifies the process for restaurant owners to apply for a seasonal outdoor dining permit through the zoning office instead of having to undergo a full site plan approval by the Board of Adjustment, which was the process previously.

The council also temporarily waived the $150 fee for applications, through Dec. 31.

The ordinance creates a seasonal permit, valid for 12 months, that will allow restaurants to place seating for patrons outside of their building. Permit applications will be reviewed by the township's zoning officer, the police department and the fire marshal to ensure the application meets established laws, rules, regulations and codes.

Applicants have to provide a drawing showing what the outdoor dining area will look like and provide details of barriers, spacing between tables, aisles and entrances to area. Restaurants will be responsible for ensuring furniture is secured, litter is managed, the dining area is washed and noise ordinances are followed.

Outdoor dining areas will be permitted to operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

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