Vancouver, Nov. 26, 2025 – Following the passage of Vancouver City Council’s motion to develop a simplified patio permitting framework, including a single application portal, Ryan Mitton, B.C. Director of Legislative Affairs for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), issued the following statement:
“We applaud Vancouver’s action to cut red tape and improve the patio experience in Vancouver. Being able to easily apply for a patio permit will help restaurant and bar owners focus on their business and spend more time with customers, not paperwork. These changes will boost Vancouver’s vibrancy, especially as small businesses prepare to welcome the world during next year’s FIFA World Cup.
“CFIB has consistently advocated for red tape reduction for the hospitality sector. Regulatory burdens disadvantage smaller organizations with fewer resources, since they are less able to navigate complex regulatory environments. CFIB research shows that Canada’s regulatory burden costs small businesses more than large ones—over $10,000 per employee per year, with nearly $4,000 spent on unnecessary red tape.
“We look forward to working with the City to ensure this program will reduce costs for small businesses and ensure a sunny, successful patio season next year.”
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For media enquiries or interviews, please contact:
Ryan Mitton, CFIB
236-638-8518
Ryan.Mitton@cfib.ca
About CFIB
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 100,000 members across every industry and region. CFIB is dedicated to increasing business owners’ chances of success by driving policy change at all levels of government, providing expert advice and tools, and negotiating exclusive savings. Learn more at cfib.ca.
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