Philadelphia business owners not happy about new outdoor dining regulations
During the two-hour virtual hearing, many restaurant owners argued the regulations will cost them too much money.
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- About 100 Philadelphia restaurant owners banded together on Wednesday for a public hearing on new regulations around the outdoor dining structures known as "streeteries."
The hearing was hosted by the Philadelphia Departments of Streets and Licenses & Inspections.
During the two-hour virtual hearing, many restaurant owners argued the regulations will cost them too much money.
"We got building permits and did it proper two years ago. We need to get recertified with updated building permits and go through Arts Commission in addition to L&I to actually have it certified," said Brendan McGrew, explaining some of the new regulations.
McGrew, who runs The Goat's Beard in Manayunk, is asking for a more streamlined process that isn't exactly one size fits all.
He and others are questioning some of the fees they are being asked to pay.
"Now they also want to ban propane heat. Electric heat has to be run underground -- it's insane, the cost. For us, we can't do it," added Tim Spinner, the chef and owner of Taqueria Amor.
It is still unclear if the new rules will be amended or when the enforcement would begin.
City officials will produce a report based on the feedback from Wednesday's meeting.
You can read more on the new regulations by clicking here.
