California redefines structures that can be used for outdoor business operations

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KION) The California Department of Public Health has released updated guidance on what types of temporary structures can be used for outdoor business operations.

In the update, the agency said businesses can use a tent, canopy or other sun shelter as long as impermeable walls make up no more than 50% of the perimeter. The walls cannot form a corner or touch each other, and windows, doors and other openings to not make a wall non-impermeable.

The agency decided to update its guidance as we head into the winter months because outdoor businesses may want to enclose more that one side to contain heat and avoid rain.

If 75% to 100% of the structure has impermeable walls, the CDPH said it does not allow for air flow and instead confines it. If the walls form a corner, the CDPH said air circulation is decreased where the walls meet.

Structures can be used for outdoor operations if 50% of the structure has walls that do not form a corner, if it is circular made up of impermeable walls that do not make up more than 50% or if they are ceilings, roofs, umbrellas or canopies without walls.