As a result of concerns raised, Cheshire East Council has reviewed its alfresco policy, which came into affect on July 1st.
The authority has taken the decision to reduce the cost of the licence to support the owners of small restaurants and cafes.
Cheshire East Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: "We have listened to concerns from residents, business owners and councillors about the existing policy. As a result, we have decided to reflect these concerns and reduce the cost of a licence for smaller, local businesses who wish to seat their customers outside.
"The reviewed policy will allow these smaller businesses to seat up to six people, rather than the original four, with a reduction of £50 for the initial licence."
The cost of the licence, which is required for any premises wishing to seat their customers outside, has been reduced to £100, from £150, for those providing an alfresco seating area for up to six people - the annual renewal fee is £100.
For premises wishing to provide an alfresco seating area for more than six people the cost for an initial licence is £550 and the annual renewal is £330.
Councillor Menlove continued: "The fees are based on the anticipated numbers of people to be seated within the alfresco area and officers' time. This includes inspections, enforcements and administration costs to manage the policy. This is not a profit-making exercise.
"We are very keen to see viable alfresco areas within our towns and it is only right that the businesses that benefit, contribute towards the cost rather than this cost being paid for by the council taxpayer."
Anyone who would like more information or advice on the alfresco policy can go to the Cheshire East website or telephone 0300 123 5020 for more information.
