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Eased Regulations Boost Outdoor Dining in Rhineland-Palatinate City Centers
City centers across Rhineland-Palatinate are witnessing a surge in outdoor dining, with local authorities easing regulations to enhance the attractiveness and vitality of these areas. The city of Mainz recently announced permanent relaxed rules for outdoor dining, a move that complements similar developments in other cities.
At a recent presentation, Economic and Ordnance Director Manuela Matz (CDU) praised the importance of the city's gastronomic businesses and their outdoor areas for the appeal and vitality of the city center. In Mainz, a building permit for outdoor dining areas larger than 50 square meters is now only required if permanent structures like canopies or podiums are set up - a threshold that was previously at 20 square meters. For areas exceeding 50 square meters, permits will now be valid for three years, with renewal made easy.
DEHOGA, the Rhineland-Palatinate industry association, emphasized the demand for outdoor spaces, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. "Since the pandemic, people have been seeking spaces with plenty of room," said Gereon Haumann, the association's president. Many prefer outdoor dining to avoid crowds.
Kaiserslautern, Trier, and Ludwigshafen have also taken steps to facilitate outdoor dining, with extended hours and streamlined procedures for obtaining permits. While the specifics vary between cities, the overall trend is clear: making it easier for businesses to offer outdoor dining contributes to the appeal and vibrancy of city centers.
However, Koblenz has no plans to liberalize its outdoor gastronomy regulations. Outdoor seating must not obstruct traffic and must allow sufficient space for emergency services and firefighters. Monthly fees per square meter range from 2.65 to 6.10 euros, with the highest rates in the old town and the lowest in the outskirts.
Although there is no overarching national policy specific to outdoor dining in German city centers, it is evident that local authorities are recognizing the value of these spaces in revitalizing city centers. As people continue to prioritize outdoor dining, cities may continue to adjust their regulations to accommodate this growing trend.
- Adopting a community policy aligned with the increasing demand for outdoor dining, city officials in Rhineland-Palatinate are considering lifestyle aspects, such as food-and-drink options, in home-and-garden layouts for enhanced city center vibrancy.
- In light of the growing trend towards outdoor dining, local authorities across Rhineland-Palatinate are considering reviewing their employment policies to accommodate the seasonal demands of gastronomic businesses, aiming to keep these establishments thriving and vital.
