Dining outside the permitted area

The issue

The complex has a permitted outdoor dining area on the far side of the building. This table was placed right at the main entrance, outside that approved area.

The table also sits directly in front of a door posted “This door to remain unlocked during business hours,” marking it as an exit. A table placed in the path of a required exit obstructs egress.

The code

Outdoor dining for an eating and drinking establishment is approved for a specific, designated area as part of the establishment's permit (SDMC §141.0621). Seating placed outside that approved area is not covered by the permit. Separately, the California Fire Code, which the City enforces, requires exit access to be continuously maintained free from obstructions to full and instant use in an emergency, so a table in the path of that exit is an obstruction.

Evidence