Jolly Pumpkin Café and Brewery, downtown Ann Arbor’s newest brewpub, is taking to the streets. The Main Street microbrewery is awaiting word from the state that will allow it to serve beer and wine at sidewalk tables.

Ann Arbor City Council recently approved the outdoor liquor license, said City Clerk Jacqueline Beaudry, and is waiting for what is usually a rubber stamp from the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.

Still, Jolly Pumpkin moved forward with outdoor seating for 16 a few weeks ago when the weather broke, said Maggie Long, general manager and executive chef. But they can’t serve beer and wine at the four tables until the MLCC gives its nod.

Jolly Pumpkin, which opened last fall, wanted to be part of the warm-weather practice of street seating, Long said. “It adds to the downtown streetscape. People love to sit outside. People love to people-watch.”

Jolly Pumpkin’s outdoor seating has been come-and-go with the weather, but once warmer temperature are constant, they will add staff to handle an expected evening boost in business from the four extra tables, Long said. For now, indoor wait staff is handling it.

Bars and restaurants serving outside must have city approval on two fronts, Beaudry said. If they are going to serve alcohol, they need approval from City Council and the state liquor commission. Once the separate request for an outdoor liquor license is approved, its renewal is wrapped into the regular liquor license renewal process.

Restaurants and bars also must secure a permit from the city’s Planning and Development Services unit to occupy outside space.

Application for the outside liquor license goes through the City Clerk’s Office.

There have been 65 permits issued in Ann Arbor to serve liquor outdoors, Beaudry said, with most of those for downtown restaurants and bars. But there are a few exceptions: Colonial Lanes bowling alley and a number of hotels needed the separate license to serve liquor on their patios.