Central Area Patio Licence Applications Open for 2026 Season

Patio Licence applications are now open for the City of Peterborough’s annual patio program. 

file photo.

The patio program creates the opportunity for more patio and pedestrian space in the City’s Central Area. This year marks the fifth year of this program. 

The program includes:  

• Allowing businesses on George, Water and Charlotte streets to use on-street parking spaces for additional outdoor business/patio space

• Maintaining the existing two vehicular travel lanes and cycling lanes on George and Water streets

• Reducing Hunter Street West to a one-lane, one-way street to expand pedestrian space and available patio areas

• Maintaining Charlotte Street as a two-way, two-lane street, while allowing for patios in on-street parking spaces through the patio permit process 

• The use of decorative fencing and planters to delineate between the new pedestrian areas, expanded/on-street patios and vehicular traffic lanes

• The program has been expanded to allow businesses in East City along Hunter Street East to operate a patio on a portion of the city sidewalks

• A non-refundable $400 application fee

Patio Licences are required for all individuals, partnerships or corporations who are proposing to place a patio on City-owned property.  

To apply for a patio licence, visit the City’s Application, Licenses and Permits webpage for more information on the application process. Applicants can submit an application, permit fee and supporting documents through the City’s website.  

Reduced speed limits will be put in place on streets with patios. Parking spaces, loading zones and designated waste pick up areas may be adjusted once patio locations have been confirmed with participating businesses.  

Licence holders must consider the accessibility needs of individuals and take necessary steps to address them. Business owners and patrons can reach out to the City with suggested modifications to the patio layouts that would improve accessibility. Where feasible, the City will work with licence holders to make the requested improvements. 

Applicants who wish to have their Patio Licence ready for the Victoria Day long weekend should submit a completed application by April 1. Applications received after April 1 will be installed based on availability of the Public Works Crews. The City will aim to install the patios within two weeks of an executed permit agreement.  

The last day to apply for the 2026 Patio season is May 29. The proposed installation dates are subject to change at the discretion of the City.  

For general inquiries relating to outdoor patios on City-owned lands, contact the City via email.

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