Ongoing Parklet Program

In 2020, Palo Alto expanded opportunities for outdoor dining in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and implemented a no-fee pilot program for temporary parklets to allow businesses to use their parking lots and public parking spaces for outdoor dining and other uses.

The ongoing parklet program focuses on parklets, for example, dining and retail on enclosed platforms within parking spaces in the public right-of-way. This program provides an option for restaurants to increase their economic vitality through expanded seating capacity with a Parklet Encroachment Permit issued by the Public Works Department. Businesses can choose between designing and building a custom parklet or a pre-approved parklet. Pre-approved parklet designs have the added benefit of an easier and shorter application process and is accompanied by a user guide that helps applicants through the process. Follow the directions below to apply for a parklet through our online system.

 

Apply for a Parklet Online

Step 1.Register with Accela Citizen Access

If you haven't done so previously, become an Accela Citizen Access registered user. Simply go to Accela Citizen Access and register for an account using your email address. You'll receive a confirmation email after you successfully create an account.

Step 2.Confirm Your Email

Follow the instructions provided to confirm your email to log into your account to start a pre-application.

Step 3.Create Pre-Application 

Follow the steps below to create a pre-application:

  1. Log into Accela account.
  2. Select “Pre-Application” then “Create Pre-Application”
  3. Select “Continue Application” at bottom of screen.
  4. Fill in the business’s street number and address then select “Search”. The system will fill in the rest.
  5. Select “Continue Application” at bottom of screen.
  6. Choose Public Works under “Application Type”.
  7. Follow the remaining steps and upload the checklists below and any files required from the checklists.

Custom Parklet

Submittal Checklist (Custom Parklet)(PDF, 2MB)

Pre-Approved Parklet

User Guide and Submittal Checklist (Pre-Approved Parklet)(PDF, 5MB)

Pre-Approved Design Plans(PDF, 6MB)

Step 4.Staff Review of Pre-Application

Staff will review your pre-application to ensure all items needed to review have been submitted.

You will be informed by phone or email if anything else is needed.

Fees are paid online through the Accela system. You will be notified when fees are due.

 

Ramona Street (Car-free portion)

Effective April 1, 2025: Updated Parklet Guidance(PDF, 950KB)

Check Application Status

Applicants may check on the status of pre-application and full application review in the Accela Citizen Access portal by logging in to the account.

Fiscal Year 2024 Parklet Municipal Fees

Parklets (PAMC Chapter 12.11)

Initial Application Fee $2,000 
Renewal Fee $250
Refundable Deposit $2,500 
License Fee for use of Right of Way      $10.71 per square foot

Parklet Cleanliness Standards

  1. Parklets and the sidewalk adjacent to the parklet shall be kept clean and litter free. Any food or drink stain shall be clean up immediately.
  2. Power washing is required monthly and permitee shall maintain records and receipts for power washing to be made available upon request.
  3. The drainage grates at the side of the parklet shall be maintained and kept clean and clear at all times to allow free flow of water. Any debris and leaves shall be removed immediately by the permitee.
  4. Leaves and litter shall not be blown in the street and shall be bagged and placed in the appropriate disposal bin.

Other Helpful Documents

If you want to have heaters or special lighting, please complete the permit applications below.

Contact Us

Email

pwecips@paloalto.gov
Back to top