Paris, which last year extended space for its sidewalk cafes and restaurants when indoor service was banned has now decided to keep the extended spaces going, at least in summer.
The extension allowed tables and chairs to be set out on sidewalks, parking spaces and squares opposite the cafe, or even in front of other businesses if business owners agreed. The extension was renewed for this summer, even as indoor seating is returning.
The new plan, announced by the deputy mayor for commerce, changes the name from terrasses éphémères (temporary terraces) to terrasses estival (summer terraces). While no fees were charged last year or this, starting in 2022, there will be fees for use of the spaces.
There will also be restrictions, with a 10 pm closing for the extended area, and no roofs, tarps, tents or advertising signs will be permitted, but owners will be encouraged to dress them up with plants and other greenery; there may even be an annual competition for attractive designs. The extended areas will also be prohibited from having music or heating systems, which may be used only in the traditional spaces belonging to the cafe, usually under its awning.
Paris restaurants, including those that originally didn’t have sidewalk seating, will be able to keep operating the extended
