City of Cotati
Community Development Department
April 11, 2023
1. Presentation on the
new Parklets and
Outdoor Dining
Program
2. Consideration of a
resolution
establishing the
Public Parklet Space
Rental Fee
Background
“Parklet” = use of parking spaces
for another purpose, often
outdoor dining
Temporary parklets in tents:
A City response to support
businesses during COVID
Staff directed to develop a
permanent program
Parklets removed April 3
Flagship Taproom Parklet, Windsor
John Burgess/Press Democrat
Background
Two business input meetings in December 2022:
Parklets provided critical support to restaurants during COVID Patrons appreciate outdoor dining, even with indoor available Interest in installing permanent parklets
Some business concerns about tent parklets:
Visually unappealing
Block public’s view of businesses
Reduced on-street parking
Community survey November-December 2022,
nearly 200 responses
Community members generally supportive
of parklets concept
Often prefer outdoor dining
Primary concerns: Appearance of the tents;
reduced availability of on-street parking
Program Overview
Goal: Simple and streamlined process
Four scenarios:
1. Parklets on public property (street parking)
2. Parklets on private property (private lots)
3. Outdoor dining on public property (sidewalk)
4. Outdoor dining on private property (locations vary)
Process: Meet with CD staff to review requirements;
submit application to CD; review by CD, PW, Police, Fire; administrative approval (adjacent residential = MUP)
Building Permit
License Agreement (Rental fee for parklets in public ROW) Program Requirements
Standards:
Visually attractive installations, regular maintenance Do not impede traffic, bicycle, pedestrian safety
Do not block visual or physical access to public amenities or neighboring businesses
Accessibility/ADA
Removable without damage to public infrastructure
Location and size:
Located directly in front of the subject business (public ROW) Maximum two public parking spaces, three private lot spaces Outdoor dining on private property = more flexibility Space rental fee proposed to partially recoup staff time in administering the public parking space parklets--$1/square foot/year (Approx. $324)
Next Steps and Recommendation
Restaurants with parklets have been invited to submit applications General outreach when program finalized
The Community Development Department
recommends that the City Council adopt a
resolution establishing the Public Parklet Space
Rental Fee.