By Jorge Casuso

August 14, 2025 -- The City Council on Tuesday permanently adopted interim zoning measures that were approved and amended over the past two years to revitalize the Promenade area.

The measures streamline alcohol permits for new non-restaurant uses and reduce operating restrictions to allow restaurants that offer entertainment to include dancing, more television screens and pub crawls.

The permanently adopted measures also lift restrictions on fast food and fast casual restaurants on the Promenade that were all but banned during the walk street's heyday.

"The zoning updates focus on making it easier for businesses to serve alcohol and offer greater entertainment options, bringing vibrancy to the downtown area," City officials said.

In a report to the Council, City staff said the amendments "have demonstrated to be supportive and effective for businesses as they have been tested and improved based on feedback since adopted as interim zoning regulations in 2023."

"These amendments were critical in providing greater certainty and predictability for property owners and their existing tenants, along with prospective businesses considering locations within the Promenade area."

The streamlined alcohol permits will be offered for new commercial uses that include bars and nightclubs, retail, recreation facilities, cultural and instructional facilities and convenience markets, City officials said.

Meanwhile, lifting fast-food restrictions has resulted in new restaurant operators on the Promenade with more expected to open, officials said.

"During the interim period, the eased regulations supported several new businesses to open downtown," City officials said.

These included AJA Vineyards, Holey Moley, Splatter Studio and Pickle Pop, while Raising Cane is expected to open soon on the Promenade.

In addition, the Council amended the current Interim Zoning Ordinance to allow existing Promenade buildings "to be flexible in the designing (of) tenant spaces based on prospective business needs," staff wrote.

The amendments also allow existing pawn shops to relocate to other Downtown properties.

“In Santa Monica we’re not afraid to try new things and respond to the ever-changing needs of our business community,” said Mayor Lana Negrete.

“These updates are already making a big impact downtown, and I look forward to seeing even more progress as we make lasting, meaningful updates to be a more business-friendly city,” Negrete said.