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A Riverside program that helps restaurants serve customers outdoors has been expanded to include retail and service businesses.
The Temporary Outdoor Flex Space Program now allows businesses to operate on private land and in public rights‐of‐way as long as they follow state regulations regarding social distancing and other state safety regulations brought on by COVID-19, according to a statement on the city’s website.
There is no charge for a permit, and most businesses can start outdoor operations immediately after they submit an application that says all safety standards have been met. Only businesses operating in a street, alley, or other public rights-of-way will require an inspection.
“This innovative approach will help our local businesses stay open with a minimum amount of red tape,” Mayor Rusty Bailey said in the statement. “Our restaurants have embraced this approach, which holds great promise for retail and service businesses as well.”
