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Hamburg's outdoor catering: New approval process for terraces!
Altona is examining multi-year permits for outdoor catering in order to support restaurants after Corona. Readers can find out more about the new regulations and deadlines.
Hamburg's outdoor catering: New approval process for terraces!
Outdoor dining is still a heated topic in Hamburg. With the focus on the Mitte and Altona districts, there are currently exciting developments that affect both restaurateurs and guests. A central aspect is the need for restaurateurs to apply for new special permits every year in order to be able to serve their guests in public spaces. This regulation is now being questioned by the new district coalition in Mitte, consisting of the SPD, Greens and FDP. It plans to introduce multi-year permits in order to save time and effort for everyone involved, as Mopo reports.
Currently, the restaurants in Mitte only have to open their terraces from the beginning of March to the end of October. A clear contradiction to the legal options in Altona, where outdoor dining is permitted until the end of the year. Politicians from Altona are now considering similar multi-year approvals, which could be discussed at the next district meeting on June 26th. The differences in approval practices are found to be incomprehensible, especially since Altona was able to enjoy longer privileges than other districts after the pandemic.
Permit requirements
But what does this actually mean for restaurateurs? In order for outdoor dining to be approved, various requirements must be met. The operator must prove personal reliability, which is done by checking the certificate of good conduct and an extract from the central commercial register. In addition, further registration and approval requirements must be observed at Hamburg.de, for example the suitability of the rooms and their location in the public interest. For restaurants, a detailed application must be submitted, which requires various documents such as an existing rental agreement and special certificates.
Another important point is the legal classification of outdoor catering. According to the legal regulations, which are also explained by Heidemann & Partner, outdoor dining is considered a use requiring approval if tables and chairs are set up on the sidewalk. These regulations are there to get possible noise emissions and other disruptions to the neighborhood under control. Permits for outdoor dining are required regardless of other existing special use permits.
The developments surrounding outdoor catering in Hamburg are closely related to the legal framework and the districts' efforts to loosen the regulations and at the same time make the city more lively. It remains to be seen how future official decisions will affect outdoor dining options and whether the new regulations will actually bring the hoped-for added value for everyone.