The B.C. government says more than 2,000 businesses that were allowed to serve alcohol on temporary patios because of the COVID-19 pandemic can apply to make those patios permanent under amended provincial liquor regulations.

“Temporary patios have been a lifeline for so many businesses and workers in the hospitality sector, and we’re committed to making these expanded serving areas part of their long-term recovery and beyond,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, in a statement.

Kamloops has seen a lot of demand for these temporary outdoor patios, the majority downtown, but also on the North Shore and elsewhere within city limits. Whether those patios become permanent remains to be seen.

“This summer we’re offering people and businesses an opportunity to complete a survey regarding extended patio experiences,” the Kamloops Central Business Association said, in a statement. “The results of the survey will determine the recommendation that Downtown Kamloops will provide to Kamloops City Council.”

Either way, all temporary extended patios will be allowed to keep operating in B.C. through to June 1, 2022. New applications will also be accepted until October 31.

“We have seen the hospitality industry pivot and open patios as a way to continue to welcome their customers and operate safely during the pandemic,” added Ravi Kahlon, the Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation.

“As we move forward with BC’s Restart, we remain committed to working with businesses to find innovative ways to help them thrive and grow.”

Local governments and Indigenous Nations have until July 31 to raise any concerns about these patios. If no concerns are raised, businesses will be given authorization letters allowing patios to stay open until June 1, 2022.

Without that authorization letter, existing temporary patios will have to be taken down on October 31.

The government says the changes it is proposing will allow businesses time to make their current patios permanent. In some cases, that might include discussions on the location or about local bylaws that dictate what can be made permanent.

“[Extended patios] have been a make-or-break opportunity for so many operations struggling through these uncommon and difficult times,” said Ian Tostenson, president and CEO, BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association.

“This timely announcement, and the certainty it will afford our members in the months and years ahead, are welcome news.”