Closed Tent Allowance For Outdoor Dining Proposed In Fairfax Co.

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — As restrictions on businesses started to be eased when the weather got warmer, restaurants have used tents, tables in parking lots and parking garages as options for outdoor dining. Now with colder weather imminent this fall and winter, further adaptations may be needed.

On Tuesday, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay asked the board to set a public hearing to allow closed or partially closed tents for outdoor dining. The current emergency ordinance allowing flexibility for outdoor dining and fitness activities only allowed tents with all sides open.

In the board matter requesting the public hearing, McKay wrote that businesses will need to enclose tents to ensure the comfort of customers. McKay requested a public hearing for Oct. 20 for consideration of amendments to the emergency ordinance.

Under the emergency ordinance approved on May 28, restaurants and exercise facilities can use existing patios, sidewalks and paved parking spaces without the need for individual approvals from the county. Because the original May 28 ordinance would have expired after 60 days, a replacement ordinance was adopted on July 14 and will be in effect six months after the local state of emergency ends, unless otherwise repealed.