Restaurants & Bars

CT Will Allow Enclosed Outdoor Dining

Connecticut will allow enclosed outdoor structures for dining, but only if they are properly ventilated.

(Shutterstock)

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut has approved the use of enclosed outdoor structures for restaurants after releasing new guidelines that call for them to be properly ventilated. The structures, sometimes referred to as greenhouses or igloos were prohibited at one point by the state.

Tents or membrane like structures must have fresh air being brought inside, according to state guidelines posted by the Connecticut Restaurant Association. The entry door and two or more window-style vents must be open at all times. They also need to be aired out between customers.

Touchless service with servers not entering the structure is encouraged. Heating sources are allowed, but need local approval.

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Connecticut went to reopening phase 2.1 Friday, which moves indoor dining capacity back to 50 percent. The restaurant industry got around four weeks of phase 3, which allowed for 75 percent indoor dining capacity. Restaurants are looking for ways to maximize outdoor space as cold weather sets in.

Phase 2.1 also includes a limit of eight people per table in restaurants.

Find out what's happening in Across Connecticutwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


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