Smithtown launches online system for outdoor dining approvals

The Town of Smithtown has created an online system for restaurants to apply for temporary outdoor dining.

The one-page application, available on the town’s website, is designed to assist existing eateries in the town that lack the indoor space to accommodate social distancing requirements.

The temporary permit would allow for outdoor dining through Nov. 1, 2020, according to a town statement. Restaurants located within a village are required to apply to both the town and village. 

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said that outdoor dining would be permitted in Phase 2 of the state’s regional re-openings, which is expected to start on Long Island on Wednesday, June 10. Several Long Island towns have been preparing to allow their restaurants to offer outdoor dining.

Restaurants with a liquor license must obtain approval from the state to serve alcohol in an outdoor area. Outdoor bars are not permissible in any outdoor accommodations. Outdoor seating can’t block entrances, exits, fire lanes, hydrants, sprinkler connection points, drive aisles, back-up areas, pedestrian or handicapped access.