Fells Point Residents raise concerns about noise and capacity violations at 1704 Courtyard

The Board of Liquor License Hearing convened on April 17, 2025, to address several concerns regarding the operations of establishments located at 1704 and 1710 in Fells Point, Baltimore. The meeting focused on issues raised by local residents, particularly regarding noise violations, capacity limits, and adherence to previously agreed-upon operational guidelines.

The hearing began with a discussion about the capacity of the courtyard at 1704, which reportedly exceeds the allowed limit of 80 patrons. Residents expressed concerns that this overcapacity could pose safety risks and violate local regulations. Additionally, there were complaints about amplified music from 1710, which was alleged to be played outside the agreed hours specified in a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the property owners and the Fells Point Residents Association.

Corinne Scheidler, a representative of the Fells Point Residents Association and a resident living nearby, testified about her experiences since the establishments began operating. She noted that music could be heard from her property after the designated hours, which contradicts the MOU stipulations that limit amplified sound to between 5 PM and 8 PM. Scheidler also highlighted that the courtyard often appears to be at full capacity, with patrons frequently using the doorway connecting the two properties, which was intended to be restricted to staff and emergency exits only.

Further inquiries revealed that patrons were observed engaging in self-service rather than the expected table service, raising questions about compliance with food service regulations. Scheidler confirmed that she had not seen any food being prepared on-site, which was another point of contention regarding the establishment's operations.

The hearing included a preliminary motion from legal representatives, emphasizing the significance of the Atlas Restaurant Group, which operates the establishments in question. They noted that Atlas is a major employer in Baltimore, employing over 1,700 individuals across 20 businesses, underscoring the economic impact of the decisions made during the hearing.

As the meeting progressed, the board considered the implications of the residents' concerns and the operational practices of the establishments. The discussions highlighted the ongoing tension between local residents seeking to maintain community standards and the business interests of the establishments involved.

The hearing concluded with a commitment to further investigate the issues raised and to ensure that all parties adhere to the established guidelines moving forward. The board plans to follow up on these matters in future meetings to ensure compliance and address community concerns effectively.