The One-Meter Rule from Trondheim. The Municipality Sets an Example for All of Norway
New rules for restaurant outdoor seating have been introduced in Trondheim. Establishments can place tables and chairs up to one meter from the building wall without submitting an application and without fees. The solution has been called "Trondheimsmeteren" (the one-meter rule from Trondheim). Other Norwegian cities are also considering similar changes.
Local authorities often treat gastronomy as an element to attract tourists.
Fot. Pixabay
The new regulations are intended to simplify the operation of the gastronomy sector. Restaurants and cafes can respond more quickly to good weather. It is enough to set up tables in front of the premises, as long as they are one meter from the facade. City authorities point to reduced bureaucracy and support for entrepreneurs. Industry representatives hope for more days with outdoor seating.
The new rule allows restaurants to set up tables and chairs without prior permission. Previously, it was necessary to submit applications and send plans to the city office. The procedure took time and required additional costs. Now, it is enough to keep a one-meter distance from the building wall. The solution is meant to make operations easier, especially for small establishments.
Trondheim's Deputy Mayor Erling Moe from the Venstre party emphasizes that the goal is to reduce bureaucracy. According to him, entrepreneurs will be able to react more quickly to changes in the weather. On sunny days, it is enough to put out chairs and start serving guests. Moe also mentions increased activity in urban spaces. In his opinion, the new rules can enliven the streets.
Trondheim's Deputy Mayor Erling Moe from the Venstre party emphasizes that the goal is to reduce bureaucracy. According to him, entrepreneurs will be able to react more quickly to changes in the weather. On sunny days, it is enough to put out chairs and start serving guests. Moe also mentions increased activity in urban spaces. In his opinion, the new rules can enliven the streets.
In many Norwegian cities, the outdoor seating season lasts from spring to early autumn.Photo: pixabay.com
Other Cities Are Watching the Solution
The industry organization NHO Reiseliv supports the introduction of the "Trondheimsmeteren." Its representatives point out that applications for outdoor dining areas can be complicated. They often require technical plans and additional documents. For small businesses, this means extra time and costs. According to the organization, simplification can help an industry operating on small margins.
Similar solutions are being considered by other cities in Norway. Bergen has already introduced the so-called "Bergensmeteren." In Oslo, the issue is currently being analyzed by city authorities. In Stavanger, the proposal was submitted by the Venstre party. In Kristiansand, the topic is being discussed in political circles.
Similar solutions are being considered by other cities in Norway. Bergen has already introduced the so-called "Bergensmeteren." In Oslo, the issue is currently being analyzed by city authorities. In Stavanger, the proposal was submitted by the Venstre party. In Kristiansand, the topic is being discussed in political circles.
During the work on the regulations in Trondheim, the issue of sidewalk accessibility for people with disabilities was also raised. City authorities emphasize that entrepreneurs must ensure free passage. The municipality will also conduct inspections. In practice, this means that each establishment must adjust the arrangement of tables to the street conditions.
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