Sidewalk Cafés and Sales

Enjoy outdoor dining in Fort Saskatchewan’s vibrant downtown! The Sidewalk Café Program allows restaurants, cafés, and bars to extend their service onto public sidewalks, creating inviting spaces for patrons to dine al fresco. With no application fee and year-round availability, this initiative supports local businesses while enhancing the pedestrian experience. Learn how to apply, review design guidelines, and explore the benefits of setting up a sidewalk café in your community.

What is the difference between a Sidewalk Café and an outdoor patio?

A Sidewalk Café is located on a public sidewalk or road, and requires a Sidewalk Café Permit.

An outdoor patio is located on a private commercial property and requires a Development Permit for an Intensity Change. A plan should be provided that shows the layout of the outdoor patio, including the location of tables and chairs.

Please contact fortplanning@fortsask.ca for information on applying for a Development Permit.

Where can a Sidewalk Café be located?

• Sidewalk Cafés are only permitted in the Downtown area, as outlined in the Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan.
• A Sidewalk Café should be located on the sidewalk in front of an eating and drinking establishment.
• Sidewalk Cafés can be located along the side of a corner building.
• A Sidewalk Café must provide a minimum of 1.2m of unobstructed sidewalk width for pedestrians. In locations with narrow sidewalk widths, temporary sidewalk decks can be provided on the road or in parking spaces.