Temporary Use Permits - Business Recovery Strategy

To respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, support health and safety guidelines, and enhance business recovery efforts, the City created a Business Recovery Strategy. Through this strategy, the City created new, special temporary use allowances to allow for more outdoor sales, events, and dining within sidewalks, streets, and parking lots.  The Business Recovery Strategy was recently extended and modified to include other allowances for other businesses and organizations.  

Some temporary activities are allowed without a permit, and some still require a permit. These are both explained below. If you have questions about your business's specific situation, please contact Deputy Director of Economic Development Jennifer Schoeneck at jschoeneck@escondido.org or 760-839-4587 who will shepherd you through the process.

Businesses and restaurants in commercial areas or commercial centers (not Grand Ave):

You can move tables and chairs outside for display, service, and dining:

  • NO Permit: If the tables and chairs are in non-parking areas (like nearby private sidewalks or near a storefront entry).
  • NO Permit: Reserve up to 4 parking spaces on your private property for carry-out services or delivery zones. You must coordinate the location with the property owner and surrounding businesses.
  • YES Permit: If the tables and chairs are located in the parking lot, then a “Special TUP” is required. We are waiving the fees for this permit. Fill out the application here Temporary Use Permit - Business Recovery Form and email to afinestone@escondido.org or return to the Planning Division at City Hall. 

Businesses and restaurants on Grand Avenue:

You can move tables and chairs outside for display, service, and dining:

  • YES permit: If the tables and chairs are located on a public sidewalk, public parking space, or street, then a “Special TUP” is required. We are waiving the fees for this permit. Fill out the application here Temporary Use Permit - Business Recovery Form email to afinestone@escondido.org or return to the Planning Division at City Hall. 
  • NO permit: Up to 2 parking spaces can be reserved in the street (i.e. Grand Avenue) for carry-out services or delivery zones. You must coordinate the location with the property owner and surrounding businesses. 

Schools:

You can do the following, if/when authorized by County Health Orders:

  • NO Permit: Classes and instruction can be conducted outside in non-parking areas (like hardscape play areas).
  • YES Permit: Classes and instruction can be conducted outside in parking areas. We are waiving the fees for this permit. Fill out the application here Temporary Use Permit - Business Recovery Form and email to afinestone@escondido.org or return to the Planning Division at City Hall. 
  • YES Permit: A school can be expanded into temporary indoor areas like an existing nearby space or building to promote social distancing, without expanding enrollment capacity. We are waiving the fees for this permit. Fill out the application here Temporary Use Permit - Business Recovery Form and email to afinestone@escondido.org or return to the Planning Division at City Hall. 

Canopy and Shade Tents:

It's getting hot out there!  The City wants to encourage and support your business as you navigate the challenges of serving your customers while complying with State and County health orders.  If you want to add a canopy or shade tent to your outdoor set-up, here's what you need to know:

Canopy and Shade Tent Guidelines

“Special” Temporary Use Permit (TUP) Application Form and Process:

Special TUP Application: Temporary Use Permit - Business Recovery Form

If you are going to apply for the TUP application, please complete the form and email to afinestone@escondido.org or return to the Planning Division at City Hall.  Once a complete application is submitted, the Planning, Building, Engineering, and Fire Department staff will review the information and approve, conditionally approve, or deny the request on the same day, or within 24 hours of receipt.

Terms and Limitations on "Special" TUPs:

Urgency Ordinance No. 2020-12 was adopted by the City of Escondido City Council on May 20, 2020 as a means of mitigating and preventing further public safety and health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you obtain a TUP, your business or restaurant will be subject to the following conditions. All approval letters that are issued will refer to the following terms and limitations.

Special TUP: Conditions of Approval

The City welcomes your business to our community and appreciates the opportunity to serve you.  Please feel free to provide us with feedback on how you are doing and what resources are needed to facilitate your business recovery.