A COVID-19 pandemic workaround that allowed New Jersey’s bars and restaurants to operate outdoors is now here to stay.

Outdoor dining permissions were set to expire next week, but Gov. Phil Murphy on Monday signed a bill to make the effort permanent.

“Outdoor dining has proven to be an incredibly successful venture over the past four years,” Murphy wrote in a statement. “I’m proud to continue this popular measure and look forward to seeing our restaurant industry continue to grow.”

Businesses will now be able to continue to use fixtures like tents, canopies, umbrellas and tables and chairs for people who wish to eat and drink outside.

Officials also said that holders of a temporary expansion permit issued by the New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control “may have their temporary permit converted to a permanent permit, which is renewable annually and is issued at the approval of local officials.”