Sidewalk display ordinance in Decorah will now go into effect

The Decorah City Council on Monday night approved a third and final reading of a new sidewalk display ordinance.

The new ordinance allows downtown businesses to put signs, tables and chairs within the first three feet out from the facade of a business--but no further.  All businesses will need to get a permit for signs and other displays--but the permits will be free.

City officials will begin an effort to publicize the details of the new ordinance, so business owners understand what is and what isn't permitted.