What is a parklet? Is the concept here to stay?

Ever walked down a busy city street and spotted a cute little seating area where you’d expect to see parked cars? That’s your answer to what is a parklet! It’s a fun way to take a couple of parking spaces and transform them into small, inviting public spaces – perfect for relaxing, grabbing a coffee, or just soaking in the city vibe.

The parklet program encourages local businesses and community groups to convert parking spaces into small public areas. These spaces could include seating, plants, and even art installations, turning ordinary parking spots into vibrant community hangouts.

How did the idea of parklets come about? 

The whole idea of parklets started in San Francisco. The concept began to raise awareness about the need for more urban green spaces. The idea took off, and what started as a one-time event soon evolved into an official city program. 

Today, various cities are rethinking how they use valuable street space, and parklets are one creative solution. Picture this: instead of seeing rows of parked cars, you get small, well-designed areas with seating, lots of greenery, and maybe some interesting pieces of art. They make the street more welcoming and show how urban design can be more about people than cars.

And by the way, it’s not just about looks. Parklets bring a real benefit to local businesses too. Think about your favorite coffee shop or lunch spot. Adding a parklet means they can offer extra outdoor seating without having to build a whole patio. This was especially helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic when outdoor dining and social distancing became not just a nice option, but a necessity. 

In cities like San Francisco, New York, and others, parklets became the go-to place to safely eat, drink, and relax outdoors while still keeping a safe distance. Parklets have undoubtedly become a popular way to make urban environments more people-friendly. 

Why are parklets a game changer?

Now, I know what you’re thinking – how does taking away parking spaces help anyone? Well, it’s a bit of a shift in mindset. Parklets help people see streets as shared public spaces, not just for cars. And, honestly, we spend way too much space on parking in cities. A few cars might lose their spots, but in exchange, you get a vibrant community area where people can gather, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with their surroundings.

These “street seats” also bring a lot of life to neighborhoods. They encourage foot traffic, which is great news for local businesses. When people have a nice spot to sit and relax, they’re more likely to hang around, maybe grab a coffee, or check out the shops nearby. Plus, parklets make walking around the city a lot more enjoyable. They break up the concrete jungle with some greenery and offer a place to rest, making the whole area feel more inviting.

Are parklets good for local businesses?

Local businesses were some of the first to realize the power of parklets. Cafes, restaurants, and even small retail shops saw them as an opportunity to extend their space outdoors. For businesses, it’s an easy way to expand without having to invest in big renovations.

For many small businesses, especially in bustling urban areas, the traditional approach of renting more space or applying for a large-scale commercial building permit might be out of reach. But with a parklet permit, they can transform a couple of parking spots into an outdoor seating area or community gathering space without the hefty cost of a major renovation.

And, most customers love having the option to dine outdoors, especially in nice weather. So, it’s a win-win situation.

Do you require commercial building permits to create parklets?

When a local business, like a café or restaurant, wants to create a parklet outside their storefront, they can’t just go out, toss some tables and chairs in a parking space, and call it a day. There’s a process, and that’s where permits come in, just like with any construction or renovation for a commercial property.

Much like when a business wants to renovate its space or expand with a patio, building a parklet requires approval from the city. A permit ensures everything meets safety standards and fits in with the city’s urban design goals. For instance, the store owner will need to make sure these parklets don’t obstruct traffic or become a hazard. Building permits help regulate things such as how big the parklet can be, what materials can be used, and even what type of seating or landscaping is allowed.

Therefore, permits for parklets are there to make sure these public spaces are safe, functional, and beneficial to the community. The process ensures that parklets are well-designed, don’t block access for pedestrians, and comply with any zoning or accessibility requirements – just like a commercial building permit would for a new shop or restaurant.

How to apply for a parklet permit?

Unlike a full-scale commercial construction project, applying for a parklet permit is usually a simpler and more affordable process. It’s a great way for businesses to expand their footprint and serve more customers without the same level of investment or time commitment that comes with a traditional building permit. Plus, with parklets, there’s a built-in benefit for the entire community. They provide public spaces for everyone to enjoy, not just the customers of a specific business.

To apply for a parklet permit, you’ll need to contact your city’s planning or transportation department. The process typically involves submitting a detailed design plan, including safety features, materials, and how the parklet will fit into the surrounding area. You’ll also need to meet specific guidelines for accessibility, safety, and maintenance, and pay any applicable fees. Some cities may also require input from neighboring businesses or community members before approval.

What is a parklet: Last thoughts

San Francisco was the pioneer in creating parklets, but today, they are popping up in cities across the United States. These cities are discovering that the benefits of parklets outweigh the loss of a few parking spots. And, parklets are becoming a symbol of how urban design can adapt to meet the needs of both businesses and the public.

Even smaller towns are getting in on the action. Parklets fit just about anywhere. Some are simple, with benches and planters, while others are more elaborate, featuring bike racks, shade structures, and public art. No matter the design, they bring a touch of nature and comfort to what was once just pavement. They help us rethink how we use our streets and remind us that cities are for people, not just cars.

Written by Ramona Sinha. October 26, 2024

Ramona is the Senior Content Writer for Kukun. This experienced blogger uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home improvement projects, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she’s a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.