Toronto restaurant owners have plenty of room to be creative in how they run their business, but while it may sometimes seem like it, it’s not the wild west out there. Like any business, restaurants must adhere to a long list of rules and regulations – starting at the municipal level all the way through to provincial and federal. One of the rules that everyone seems to be asking about concerns the family pet.
In this blog, we’re looking at bylaws and other relevant regulations that directly impact restaurant owners in Toronto, with an additional focus on those that are often overlooked. Let’s get started!
What’s New For 2025?
The City of Toronto recently outlined a number of changes to existing bylaws for the year 2025. Most of these changes surround permits, application and renewal fees, along with a few tweaks to zoning rules. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date information on these changes click here.
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Advertising & Signage
One of the most important parts of running a restaurant is advertising. After all, how are you supposed to build a loyal customer base without getting the word out? That said, there are a few bylaws that dictate how a restaurant can advertise on the street.
Any and all signs displayed around a restaurant must adhere to Toronto’s signage regulations, which can be found in Chapter 694 of the Municipal Code. These rules outline the required size, placement, and design of signs to ensure they do not obstruct sidewalks, block visibility, or pose safety risks. Restaurant owners must apply for a signage permit before installing any new signs, whether they are for advertising, directional purposes, or promotional campaigns.
Good signage is a big investment, so it’s important to get the necessary permits before you do anything. Even temporary or seemingly small signage can lead to fines or removal orders if you don’t follow the rules.
Keeping it Clean
Proper waste management is a vital part of running a restaurant in Toronto. The city mandates specific protocols for disposing of garbage, recyclables, and organic waste. Restaurants are also required to install and maintain grease traps to prevent grease and cooking oils from entering the sewer system, which can cause blockages and environmental harm.
Once again, attempting to bend the rules can be detrimental to your business. Non-compliance with Toronto’s waste disposal regulations can lead to hefty fines or operational restrictions.
On top of keeping the inside of the building clean, restaurant owners are also required to look after the public property found right outside the business. This means ensuring there’s no litter on the sidewalk – including cigarette butts.
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Accessibility
As part of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), restaurants in Toronto must offer equal access to all customers. Entrances, washrooms, dining areas, and any other customer space should be designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, such as those who use wheelchairs, crutches, or walkers. Restaurant owners are also required to offer staff training on providing inclusive and respectful customer service to guests with disabilities, including those who may have visual, hearing, or cognitive impairments.
Accessibility law can be complex. Luckily, resources are available if you’re looking for clarity on certain accessibility laws.
Can a Restaurant Be Dog-Friendly?
One of the most misunderstood rules when it comes to restaurants in Toronto concerns dogs. There seems to be some general confusion over when and where dogs are allowed in restaurants. It’s time to set the record straight.
In Toronto, dogs are not allowed in indoor dining areas or anywhere food is served. With the exception being service dogs. Patios are a different matter. Restaurants may allow dogs on their patios as long as they are accessible from the exterior of the restaurant. And of course, some restaurants may choose not to allow dogs on their patios. But regular pets aren’t allowed to come inside the restaurant itself.
The AODA outlines that service animals are welcome in any establishment that serves food as long as your customer has adequate documentation. Usually, this is in the form of a letter from a designated healthcare professional. If you have a large team working at your restaurant, it’s a good idea to have a training session or meeting so everyone’s on the same page on what to do when a customer arrives with a service animal.
Have questions about buying or selling a restaurant? We have answers! Reach us at ryan@carverealestate.com or call 416-618-0054.
