PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — As Portland’s warm weather draws more people to dine outside, the city is urging customers and businesses to take a closer look at curbside outdoor patios, warning that structures that are not properly maintained could pose a health hazard and put permits at risk.
The city of Portland’s Bureau of Transportation said in a press release that hazy plastic can become a problem over time.
“Sun exposure can cause yellowing and haze, while vehicle exhaust and air pollution leave behind stubborn films that dull the surface. Rain and humidity can deposit minerals or encourage mildew, and constant temperature changes create tiny cracks that trap dirt,” the bureau said.
The city said businesses should also clean debris, leaves and litter from outdoor dining areas.
Curbside outdoor structures are required to have a storm drain, and the bureau emphasized the importance of keeping it clear. “Ensure both the mesh exterior and the channel beneath the platform are thoroughly cleaned—keeping them clear helps prevent heavy buildup that can lead to flooding or water pooling,” PBOT said.
For some restaurants, the upkeep is worth it.
Jinuk Lee, co-owner of Moon Pocha, said outdoor seating is an important tool for business, especially in spring and summer.
“I think, you know, we have such a short time of year in Portland where the weather’s really nice, and so it really is people the opportunity to enjoy, you know, all the nice weather in lots of different ways,” Lee said.
Moon Pocha, a Korean restaurant on Southeast 28th Avenue in Portland’s Kern’s Neighborhood, recently celebrated its one-year anniversary. Lee said the business also recently renewed its outdoor dining structure permit.
“Similar to what you do at your own home, you have to make sure that you are protecting things as best you can with different kinds of seals. We used to have a roof, but we had to take that down because it wasn’t within the city rules, and so because of that, we have to just re-maintain the tables cover them up every year,” Lee said.
The city said now is the time for businesses to renew their outdoor seating permits and suggested adding several questions to renewal checklists, including whether the Outdoor Dining Permit is displayed clearly in the front window, whether insurance is up to date for the new permit cycle, whether property ownership has changed and an updated consent form has been submitted, whether the business is planning to vacate its permitted space, and whether the business has changed ownership.
The city is also taking new applications between May and October.
Design guidelines are available through the city, and questions can be directed to outdoordining@portlandoregon.gov.
Dining and Cooking