Economic Matters Committee Meeting November 4, 2026

The City of Annapolis Economic Matters Committee met on November 4, 2026, to consider outdoor-dining legislation O-29-26, covering definitions, operating standards, and enforcement. After testimony from restaurant representatives and a Ward 1 residents’ association representative, members discussed whether patrons may stand while eating or drinking, how sidewalk and street cafés should be regulated, and whether violations should be handled by Planning and Zoning or the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. Restaurant representatives emphasized consistent rules and concerns about enforcement burdens; the residents’ representative raised concerns about neighborhood impacts and enforcement downtown.

The committee recommended O-29-26 favorably as amended. Amendments addressed barriers around outdoor dining areas and allowed standing patrons to be served at sidewalk and street cafés, while barring designated standing areas there and prohibiting patrons from blocking pedestrian passageways or vehicle lanes. The committee also agreed to clarify that allowing service to standing patrons can qualify as a minor modification to an existing special exception, and requested Fire Marshal input on an amendment concerning review of seating limits. Other proposed amendments did not advance or received unfavorable recommendations. No contracts, vendor selections, budget allocations, or other procurement activity were identified.