Urban environment Helsinki renewed its terrace policy: In the future, “mini terraces” may be erected without a separate agreement

City|Urban environment

Helsinki the city is renewing its patio practices for years to come. In the future, it will be possible to introduce “mini-terraces” without the need for a separate agreement or notification with the city. The mini-terrace is an area up to 80 cm wide, which is attached to the façade of the premises and is implemented with lightweight structures.

During the contract period last summer, Helsinki had an agreement for a total of 790 terraces, of which about 250 were mini-terraces. In 2021, the city generated approximately EUR 1.2 million in rental income from the terraces. Revenues were somewhat affected by nationwide interest rate restrictions that shortened the term of the terraces.

The new terms are valid from April until 2027.

In the guidelines, some of the flexibilities introduced during the Korona period were changed to permanent practices. From now on, the terraces will be open until 11 pm and music can be played until 10 pm.

Terrace and the terms of the parquet contracts have been harmonized, updated and clarified.

Parquet floors, ie parking square terraces, have become more common in the street view of Helsinki in recent years. At present, almost one-fifth of the terraces in Helsinki’s public areas are parklets.

The city has wanted to streamline the processes related to terraces in the renovation. In this connection, terrace contractors will in future be able to terminate their contracts with one month’s notice, compared with three months previously.

Changes were also made to the rental price list for terrace areas and rents for the new contract period were increased by 8%.

At the same time, the new contract period means that those who continue to operate the terrace next summer or the founders of a new terrace will all have to sign a new contract with the city. According to the city bulletin, there are hundreds of renewable contracts, so it’s worth filling out an application well in advance.