Morgantown City Council voted unanimously to extend the Emergency Ordinance it set into place on March 16 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ordinance will be in place through Sept. 25.
To help reopening businesses meet physical distancing and related rules under the Monongalia County Health Department and the emergency order of the State of West Virginia, this ordinance suspends minimum parking requirements and temporary sign regulations.
Existing private parking spaces in non-residential zoning districts may be used by restaurants and retail locations for the purpose of outdoor dining and seating, and the display of merchandise, products, produce, plants, equipment, etc. Handicap parking spaces and accessible routes must remain open, and canopies and awnings used to cover dining and seating areas must be secured properly and obtain related building permits if required.
Temporary sign permits will not be required for signage during this period. Temporary signs may not exceed 32 square feet in size and may not obstruct a clear sight triangle or pose a hazard to the public.
If you are interested in obtaining a permit to use a public right-of-way such as a sidewalk for dining or business purposes, you can obtain an application for the temporary outdoor dining program at the City of Morgantown website. For questions or concerns, please contact the Development Services Department at 304-284-7431.