Sign Here

To the Encinitas City Council:

We, the undersigned, strongly support the continuation of private property outdoor dining in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.

In the heart of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, five beloved restaurants have become cherished havens for both locals and visitors alike. These establishments offer more than just meals; they provide a sense of community, a place where friendships thrive and memories are made. Their outdoor dining areas, situated on privately owned property, have contributed to the unique charm and identity of our town.

It is heartbreaking to think that these outdoor spaces, which have weathered various storms and continue to play a pivotal role in our community, are now facing this imminent threat. These outdoor dining areas not only enhance our culinary scene but also support the local economy by attracting visitors, which in turn benefits other small businesses in the area. 

Outdoor dining is not just a convenience — it is part of Cardiff’s character, culture, and economy. It embodies the principles of the Cardiff Specific Plan by supporting a pedestrian-friendly, human-scale village atmosphere that enhances our beach town charm.

The community values the vibrancy and social atmosphere these outdoor spaces bring. They serve as vital gathering spots where residents can unwind and connect, contributing to the exceptional quality of life in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Moreover, the outdoor settings provide a safer dining option, which has been increasingly important in recent years.

To preserve these integral parts of our community, we urge the city council to consider the economic and social benefits that these spaces provide, and provide a sustainable path forward that ensures the continued prosperity of our unique dining atmosphere.

Join us in protecting the heart and soul of Cardiff-by-the-Sea's dining scene. Sign this petition to urge local officials to reassess and preserve the outdoor dining areas that mean so much to our community.

Here are the facts:

• Cardiff restaurants are not increasing capacity; they are reallocating existing seating into outdoor space.
  
  
  

• According to the 2024 City of Encinitas Parking Study (Cardiff, Downtown Encinitas, and Leucadia), outdoor dining spaces do not reduce parking availability near coastal access points, and many private or specific-purpose parking lots remain underutilized even during high demand.
  
  

• Parking spaces repurposed for outdoor dining can be offset by agreements with other community businesses, ensuring additional parking spots and community collaboration.
  
  

• 95% of Cardiff’s outdoor dining is directly on the ground, not raised decking — meaning no stormwater runoff or sanitation issues are created.
  
  

• Outdoor dining fosters a dog-friendly atmosphere, which is core to Cardiff’s culture and valued by residents and visitors alike.
  
  

Most importantly: the Cardiff community is 100% united in supporting outdoor dining, with no dissent.

We urge the Encinitas City Council to honor the spirit of the Cardiff Specific Plan and preserve private property outdoor dining for the benefit of residents, visitors, and future generations.

Cardiff is stronger with outdoor dining. Please help us keep it that way.