By Robert Emerick
REV Client Relations Manager
The Birmingham City Council recently approved the Shared Space Permit aimed at helping bars and restaurants safely welcome customers back for an on-site dining experience while also maintaining social distancing rules.
Like with many new strategies in the age of COVID-19, the permit comes with questions. That’s where REV comes in for you, restaurant owners! We’ll explain how the permit works as well as how our team can help you through the process.
What is the Shared Space Permit?
The City of Birmingham has created a special permit that allows the temporary use of designated, outdoor, public space to promote safe distancing during the coronavirus outbreak.
What uses does the permit allow?
- Seating or dining
- Retail use
- Curbside Pickup
Can alcohol be served in a Shared Space footprint?
The Shared Space Permit allows a temporary extension of the licensed premises for sale, service and consumption of alcoholic beverages. The applicant must present a copy of the final permit to the Alabama ABC Board to confirm the City’s consent for the use of the space. The applicant is responsible for appropriate liability insurance for any areas where alcohol is sold or served. In response to the Coronavirus pandemic, AABC has made temporary changes to its rules and processes.
Are the Shared Space Permit and an Entertainment District the same thing?
No. While alcohol may be consumed in the designated Shared Space footprint (see above), open containers cannot be carried between establishments as is allowed in areas designated as an Entertainment District.
How does the Shared Space Permit Work?
The permitting process has been streamlined to make it as simple as possible. Here are the requirements:
- Create a site plan.
- Complete the application, including insurance documentation, hold harmless agreement and pay the $25 non-refundable application fee.
- Set it up and you’re in business!
How can REV Birmingham help?
REV has developed a design guide that includes possible layouts and resources for finding materials like traffic barriers. In addition, REV can provide assistance with:
- Developing your site plan
- Navigating the permit process
- Answering your questions about space design requirements, the permitting process, and ABC requirements
Related News
-
12 anchor businesses in Woodlawn's historic commercial district
Filed Under: Business-Proving, Front Page, Small Business, Woodlawn
The historic Woodlawn commercial district has been home to some exciting openings in the last year. These new concepts represent the evolution of Woodlawn businesses, providing us a glimpse at what the future holds for this special place. However, as the saying goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day – and neither was Woodlawn! That’s why we want to tip our hats and raise a glass to some of the businesses that have paved the way for further development and growth in Woodlawn.
-
A cautionary tale: Birmingham's historic losses
Filed Under: Developer, Downtown Birmingham, Front Page, Historic Preservation
In case you haven’t heard, May is National Historic Preservation Month, as so celebrated for years by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the National Park Service. Here in Birmingham, a city rich in history and culture, this month-long celebration is not only a reminder to take stock of the historic treasures and charm we currently possess, but a time to mourn those we no longer have.
-
10 powerful examples of historic preservation in action
Filed Under: Downtown Birmingham, Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Historic Preservation, Potential-Proving, Yaysayers
It’s easy to take for granted the historic gems we have here in Birmingham. Many beautiful, story-filled buildings dot the map of our city, their silhouettes adorning our skylines and their façades serving as the vibrant background to our everyday lives downtown. However, without attention, investment and a commitment by our community to prioritize these treasures, our historic buildings and the authentic character they give our city can disappear.