Briefing for the Pasadena Business Community July 28, 2020

News & Announcements

In an effort to keep you informed of developments related to COVID-19, the City of Pasadena offers the following information to the Pasadena business community. Our goal is to disseminate accurate public health information, offer recommendations to prepare for and slow the spread of the virus, and provide links to resources for additional information. Please disseminate this information with your businesses, community partners, etc.

Important Updates & Resources
for Pasadena Businesses 

Revised Health Order, Certain Business Types May Operate Outdoors

On Monday, July 20, 2020, the State of California revised their mandate to allow certain business types to operate outdoors. In line with the Governor's announcement, the City of Pasadena has revised it's Expedited Plan Check and Review Portal to help facilitate businesses allowed under the State's revised directive to operate outdoors. Scroll for more information!

Here's How To Move Nail/Hair Salons & Massage Operations Outdoors:

On July 20th, the California Department of Public Health issued guidance for how barbering and cosmetology services can be offered safely outside. These guidelines allow the OPTION for services to be done outside. Pasadena is supportive of nail salons, hair salons, barbershops, and massage services utilizing outdoor PRIVATE property to conduct their business in a safe and responsible manner, and in compliance with industry protocols. Salons and cosmetology services relocated to private property do not require a permit, unless, for example, the business plans to erect a tent or truss structure within their outdoor layout. 

Salons & cosmetology services may apply for a permit from the City to relocate outdoors and within the following public right-of-way locations:

  • City streets (with proper traffic control and within existing partial lane closures for businesses) 
  • Parklets
  • Sidewalks

To access the 'Expedited Plan Check & Permitting Portal', click here.

Here's How To Move Fitness Studio Operations Outdoors:

In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, the Governor has recently required fitness studios to close or, if possible, operate outdoors. During this time, the mental and physical health of the community is of the utmost importance and Pasadena is supportive of gyms and fitness studios utilizing outdoor PRIVATE property to conduct their business in a safe and responsible manner, and in compliance with industry protocols. Fitness studios relocated to private property do not require a permit, unless, for example, the business plans to erect a tent or truss structure within their outdoor layout. 

Fitness Studios may apply for a permit from the City to relocate outdoors and within the following public right-of-way locations:

  • City streets (with proper traffic control and within existing partial lane closures for businesses) 
  • Parklets
  • Municipal parking lots. 

To access the 'Expedited Plan Check & Permitting Portal', click here.

Here's How to Move Restaurant Operations Outdoors:

The City of Pasadena's 'Expedited Plan Check & Permitting Portal' is available to assist restaurants and retail food establishments move their dine-in operations outside. Pasadena restaurants can pursue a no-fee expedited permit for outdoor dining on sidewalks, alleys and private property. The Expedited Plan Check & Permitting Application Portal also allows for a rapid review of outdoor street dining permits, conditional use permits for alcohol sales, structural and non-structural tenant improvements (permit fees apply). 

Restaurants may apply for a permit from the City to relocate outdoors and within the following public right-of-way locations:

  • City streets (with proper traffic control and within existing partial lane closures for businesses) 
  • Parklets
  • Sidewalks
  • Alleys

To access the 'Expedited Plan Check & Permitting Portal', click here.

Even when business operations move outside, staff and patrons must always do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19.  Always practice safe habits including, but not limited to:

  • Cover your nose & mouth with clean face coverings
  • Stay home if you're sick
  • Practice physical distancing of 6 feet or more
  • Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer often after contact with frequently touched surfaces

To download the COVID-19 signage for businesses to post within their establishments, click here.

Helpful Links Regarding COVID-19:

Sign-Up for Business Briefing Updates:

Please encourage your merchants, business owners, and associates to subscribe to receive these business updates related to the City of Pasadena's response to COVID-19. To subscribe, click here.

We appreciate our business community's patience, understanding, and support
as we navigate the challenges related to COVID-19.
We are a resilient community.
We are in this together.
Please stay healthy and safe.