CARPINTERIA NEWS: PARKLETS LEASED BY THE CITY

 

WHAT ARE PARKLETS?

Parklets are a small public gathering space used as an extension of dining space of a nearby restaurant or food service establishment. They may also be used for public or private seating, bicycle parking, or other sidewalk type uses.

These parklets started popping up during in 2020 to meet the needs at the time and have stayed after showing a positive impact in some areas. The City of Carpinteria has seen a positive impact and is incentivizing restaurant owners to participate with a parklet leasing program.

 

SUMMARY

The City of Carpinteria has a parklet leasing program. Restaurants in the Downtown "T" area that meet the criteria will be able to lease a parklet for $68 a month. The restaurant can customize their parklet based on the options provided by the pre-approved manufacturer. In order to lease the parklet, the restaurant owner will have to submit an application to the city by July 1, 2024.

CRITERIA

Restaurants located within the Downtown "T" (see image below) in Carpinteria will be able to take advantage of this program. The restaurant must be defined as a restaurant per Section 8.08.820 of the Carpinteria Municipal Code. The restaurant must show proof of insurance.

                                    

In addition to being located in the Downtown "T", the proposed parklet needs to be located directly in front of the restaurant.  If a restaurant has two dedicated parking spots, the parklet can take the space of both of them. 

PERMIT & LEASE

The initial term of the permit is 5 years and will need to be renewed yearly after that. The permit application fee is $435 and the monthly lease is $68. The permit and plans for the monthly leased parklets can be prepared by an unlicensed designer. Custom parklets need to be prepared by a licensed professional. The permit application needs to be accompanied by a detailed site plan with required information and images of the selected materials.

In addition to the parklet infrastructure, items that can be included but are not required in the permit are: furnishings, landscaping, heating, lighting, and bicycle parking. Heating elements will require an additional permit and approval by the Fire District and by Public Works.

The restaurant will need to show proof of insurance as well. Alcohol service in the public Right-of-Way must be approved by the City and the Ca A.B.C.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Between now and June 30, Unlocked Designs is offering a parklet permitting package to restaurants that fit the criteria for these leased parklets. For a flat fee, Unlocked Designs will help you pick out the right parklet for your style, prepare the permit application and supporting documents, and coordinate with the City of Carpinteria to obtain your permit. Contact Unlocked Designs to get started by visiting our website and booking a free 30 minute introduction call or emailing us at UnlockedDesignsShop@gmail.com.