Montreal cuts terrasse permit fees to cost until 2030 amid major construction

People enjoy the warm weather and dine on a terrasse in Montreal, Thursday, May 12, 2022. (Ryan Remiorz, The Canadian Press)

In an effort to support downtown businesses, the City of Montreal says it is reducing terrasse permit fees to cost for restaurateurs, while major construction projects continue.

The measure will be in place until July 2030.

During a press conference Thursday, city officials said the goal is to ease some of the financial pressure on businesses affected by the ongoing work in the area.

For some operators, the new pricing could mean paying up to five times less than the usual rate. The borough is also waiving certain operating costs, such as fees tied to the removal of street furniture.

According to the city, the move is part of a broader effort to revitalize downtown Montreal, led by the mayor and Ville-Marie officials.

“We promised during the campaign to make several fees associated with terrasse permits free. Today, we are delivering,” said Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada.

Under the program, seasonal rates include:

• a base public-domain occupancy fee of $150;
• area fees of $1.14 per square foot ($12 per square metre) for terraces in the downtown core;
• $0.56 per square foot ($6 per square metre) for terraces in peripheral sections.

“Downtown businesses will see their terrasse permit costs drop significantly. With so much construction, we need to help merchants make the most of the warm season.

Terrasses are part of Montreal’s DNA and help bring our commercial streets back to life each spring,” the mayor said.