101 businesses participate in Santa Monica’s outdoor dining programs, which began as a temporary measure during COVID-19
In an effort to assist local businesses recovering from the recent Palisades Fire, the city of Santa Monica has waived outdoor dining fees for the month of February. The initiative, part of the city’s emergency response, applies to sidewalk dining, parklets, and extended pier deck dining.
Mayor Lana Negrete emphasized the city’s commitment to supporting its business community, especially in the wake of disaster. “As a small business owner, I understand firsthand how an emergency can impact local businesses. Waiving these fees provides much-needed relief, and I encourage everyone to support our restaurants, shops, hotels, and other businesses as we rebuild,” she said.
Currently, 101 businesses participate in Santa Monica’s outdoor dining programs, which began as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic and were made permanent in October 2022. Businesses can still apply for the Sidewalk Dining or Outdoor Parklet programs.
Economic Development Manager Jennifer Taylor noted the city’s responsiveness to the business community. “Many of our restaurants have experienced a significant drop in customers and sales due to the fire’s impact. By waiving fees for a month, we hope to provide relief and ensure these businesses continue benefiting from the popular outdoor dining programs,” Taylor said.
Santa Monica remains under an emergency proclamation following the devastating wind and firestorm that began on January 7. The Palisades Fire and other regional blazes have burned more than 40,000 acres across Los Angeles County, prompting evacuation orders and damaging critical infrastructure. High winds, with gusts exceeding 80 mph, contributed to the rapid spread of fires and widespread power outages.
In response, the city updated its Emergency Order on January 31 to provide additional flexibility for displaced schools and businesses. The order also adjusted housing support criteria to assist those affected by the fires. Temporary accommodations, parking regulation adjustments, and eviction protections have been implemented to aid displaced residents.
