B.C. allows patio expansions for restaurants, pubs, tasting rooms to help with physical distancing

The provincial government is allowing businesses like restaurants, cafes and breweries to make their patios biggerso they can serve more peopleat a proper distance, as B.C.reopens its economy.

A statement Friday said food-primary, liquor-primary and manufacturer licensees, including breweries, wineries anddistilleries, are now allowed to apply to expand their service licence to include a larger area.

The statement said businesses will be able to apply with "a simplified online process" through theLiquor and Cannabis Regulation branch (LCRB) with no extra fees. Local governments must also grant their approval.

The expansion approvalwill lastuntil Oct. 31.

The government noted the wider service areawillnot mean the business's occupancy level canrise.Businesses are meant to use the extra area to properly space out their customers with physical distancing.

"While there will not be a site inspection prior to approval of the permit, inspectors will conduct regular compliance inspections," the statement said.

The food service industry has been among the hardest hit during the pandemic, due to take-out only restrictions under the provincial health officer's orders. A number of industry leaders and local politicians have pushed for expanded patios to help businesses as they look to recover.

"This is excellent news that will be welcomed by all of our members and by businesses throughout B.C.,"Ian Tostenson, president of theB.C. Restaurant and Foodservices Association wrote in a statement Friday. "This pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for all of us."

Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart said he was "very pleased" with the province's decision, adding city staff are working toexpedite the approval of new patios starting June 1.