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Tents defined, allowed in Dewey business district

Outdoor service area coverings not considered an expansion
February 28, 2023

Dewey Beach commissioners voted 4-1 Feb. 17 on ordinances defining tents and the use of tents, canopies and awnings over outside restaurant service areas.

Tents are defined as anchored structures with a membrane or fabric roof that is attached to the ground, deck, patio or similar structure and enclosed or able to be enclosed on one or more sides by a roll-down or attached flexible, clear material. 

Tents, canopies and awnings are not considered an addition, expansion or extension of the business, per the approved ordinance, and may be used in conditional-use approved and existing nonconforming areas.

Commissioner David Jasinski voted against both proposed ordinances, stating that tent structures may end up becoming tents in name only; he said they will become more substantial than what was originally envisioned.

Discussions regarding tents began in December, when council voted to refer ordinance drafts to the planning and zoning commission for review; the commission held public hearings and voted Jan. 21 to recommend ordinances to council.

 

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