Patrons will be able to enjoy more outdoor drinking and dining in The Rocks and Sydney CBD in a new 12-month pilot.
Working with the City of Sydney, the NSW Government is making it quicker and easier for hospitality venues to set up outdoor drinking and dining areas.
Cafes, bars, restaurants and hotels in the Sydney CBD can apply for an outdoor dining licence without needing to get a planning approval.
An amendment to the Liquor Regulation will also allow expanded liquor licence boundaries to be approved in 3 days – a process that used to take up to 51 days.
The 12 month pilot starts on 16 October 2020 in The Rocks, and 1 November 2020 in the Sydney CBD.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on the hospitality industry.
“This solution will not only keep our communities safer, but draw people back into the city so we can support local business and boost the economy,” Mr Stokes said.
Pubs, small bars and cultural venues with a food or drink outlet are invited to have their say on proposed changes to legislation that would temporarily allow outdoor dining.
Patrons are encouraged to learn how to have a COVID Safe summer.
Applications are open for outdoor dining approval.
