Des Moines Sun

The Des Moines City Council passed an initiative titled “Dine Out Des Moines" on June 11 to give local restaurants hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic business closures more options to survive.

“We feel this is a great solution for those establishments hit hard by the COVID-19 restrictions,” SuAnn Donovan, City Community Development Dept. director, was quoted on the City of Des Moines website. “We will help jump start their business, offer an enjoyable outdoor experience and ensure safety to staff and customers. The Council has approved a program that eliminates many existing requirements, allowing our staff to issue permits more quickly and in locations not previously allowed.”   

Passage of the measure means that restaurants and bars can set up service and dining areas outside of their immediate places of business, anywhere nearby space will allow, such as parking lots, sidewalks or on the street.

Restaurant owners are asked to submit a site plan explaining the intended expansion of their service area and its physical characteristics including landscaping and walking areas. Approval is based on an application process and adequate insurance coverage.

An application for a liquor license to serve drinks in the outdoor seating can be obtained by submitting an application to the State of Iowa, the city website noted.