On April 19, 2022, the County of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors (Board) instructed Public Works (PW) and the Department of Regional Planning (DRP), in consultation with the Chief Executive Office (CEO), Public Health (PH), Fire Department (Fire), Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), and County Counsel to establish a permanent outdoor dining program, including necessary amendments to Title 22 (Planning and Zoning). The Title 22 Outdoor Dining Ordinance regulates outdoor dining on private property in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. Key proposed changes include:

• Application Process: Temporary outdoor dining requires a Special Event Permit.
• Standards for Outdoor Dining:
  • Walls and Fencing: Solid, non-permeable walls required when adjacent to residential or agricultural zones; decorative fencing is no longer allowed.
  • Lighting: Must prevent glare or direct illumination onto residential or agricultural zones.
  • Coverings: Awnings, umbrellas, canopies, and shade sails must be weather-, UV-, and fire-resistant. Portable tents and banners are prohibited.
  • Barriers and Landscaping: A 42-inch-high barrier is required along outdoor dining areas adjoining public rights-of-way unless furniture is removed daily. Permanent barriers (42–60 inches) are required for dining in repurposed parking or closed driveways. K-rails and traffic cones are prohibited. Outdoor dining areas may replace required landscaping.
  • Parking: Restaurants in Public Transit Areas or under 3,000 sq. ft. may repurpose up to three parking spaces for outdoor dining with property owner permission. Larger restaurants outside Public Transit Areas require additional permits if outdoor dining impacts required parking.
  • Accessibility and Clearance: Outdoor dining must maintain at least 4 feet of pedestrian clearance, remain accessible to individuals of all abilities, and avoid obstructing driveways, fire lanes, or parking circulation.
  • Sound and Entertainment: Amplified sound, live entertainment, speakers, and televisions are prohibited.
  • Transactions: Cash registers and transaction equipment are prohibited in outdoor dining areas.
  • Alcohol Sales: Require a Conditional Use Permit and compliance with California Alcoholic Beverage Control regulations.
  • Patio Heaters: Must meet all County regulations.
  • Trash: Only bins required by the County’s health and safety code are permitted.

View the full Ordinance

For information regarding outdoor dining in public rights-of-way please see https://pw.lacounty.gov/core-service-areas/municipal-services/dine-out/.