Print The Solana Beach City Council unanimously approved the extension of a COVID-19 temporary use permit policy that has allowed restaurants to expand outdoor dining. The policy will now be in place until Jan. 1, 2022, or until statewide emergency public health orders are lifted. It was set to expire at the end of April. “The literal lifelines that kept many of us afloat outside of (Paycheck Protection Program) loans was pick-up orders and outdoor seating expanding the premises,” said Tom van Betten, co-owner of the Saddle Bar. He was one of the public speakers during the April 28 council meeting in support of the extension. He mentioned the possibility of embracing more space for outdoor dining long-term in San Diego, similar to sidewalk cafes that are common in Europe.