Public Parklets are temporary, publicly accessible spaces located within the curbside or curb lane area of the public right of way. They transform street space into places where people can gather, rest and enjoy their neighbourhood while contributing to a more vibrant and welcoming public realm. Public parklets may include seating, landscaping, public amenities, community programming, and other features that support local businesses and placemaking.
Public Parklets can help:
- Create welcoming public spaces that encourage people to spend time in neighbourhoods and commercial districts.
- Support local businesses, Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), community organizations and neighbourhood destinations.
- Enhance streetscapes through landscaping, design features and community-focused amenities.
- Enhance streetscapes through landscaping, design and public amenities.
- Support community building, placemaking and local activation initiative
The City prioritizes safe, accessible and inclusive public spaces. Public parklets should complement the surrounding public realm and support access for all users
Public Parklets are best suited for Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), and community organizations, that are interested in creating high-quality public spaces that contribute to neighbourhood vitality and economic activity. Parklets require approval through the City of Toronto’s permit process and must comply with Chapter 742 of the Toronto Municipal Code, applicable design requirements and all operational standards.
Application Requirements
Applications should consider factors such as:
- Contribution to the public realm and neighbourhood placemaking objectives.
- Enhancement of the pedestrian experience.
- Support for local economic activity and main street vibrancy.
- Accessibility, safety and compatibility with surrounding uses.
- Ongoing stewardship and maintenance of the space.
Applicants will be required to submit detailed plans and supporting information, which may include:
- Site plans showing existing and proposed conditions.
- Dimensions and location of the proposed parklet.
- Accessibility and barrier-free design features.
- Details regarding furnishings, landscaping, fencing, lighting and other proposed elements.
- Maintenance and operational plans.
- Evidence of stakeholder, community or BIA support, where applicable
Design and Operational Considerations
Parklets must:
- Maintain safe pedestrian movement and accessibility.
- Protect sightlines and road user safety.
- Maintain required clearances from utilities, transit stops, hydrants, street furniture and other infrastructure.
- Be designed with durable, high-quality materials appropriate for the public realm.
- Remain clean, orderly and in good repair throughout the permit term.
- Comply with all applicable City, and government agencies (provincial and federal) requirements.
Maintenance Responsibilities
Permit holders are responsible for:
- Maintaining all landscaping, furnishings and other parklet features.
- Keeping the parklet and surrounding area clean and free of debris, graffiti and hazards.
- Ensuring the parklet remains accessible and safe for public use.
- Promptly addressing any maintenance concerns identified by the City
If you’re interested in creating a public parklet, contact the CafeTO team to discuss eligibility and application requirements, design considerations and operational responsibilities.
For more information, please contact:
CafeTO Program
Email: CafeTO@toronto.ca
The CafeTO team can provide guidance on current requirements, timelines and the application process.
