Tacoma Council discusses regulation of Night Owl Tavern after multiple violent incidents

Concerns over public safety at Tacoma's Night Owl Tavern dominated discussions during the Government Performance Finance Committee meeting on June 3, 2025. The tavern has faced a series of violent incidents this year, including a shooting that injured two teenagers, prompting city officials to explore regulatory measures aimed at curbing such occurrences.

Council members highlighted the establishment's troubling history, noting multiple incidents in early 2025 alone, including assaults and a DUI. "We can't prevent everything, but we feel like... it's a good step forward to try to have a tool or attempt to regulate some of the activity there," one council member stated, emphasizing the need for action to protect the community.

The committee discussed potential zoning regulations for after-hours establishments, with officials clarifying that such venues are typically located in commercial districts. They also addressed concerns about crowd control and parking, particularly regarding establishments that do not own adjacent lots. "We do have tools in the toolbox," one member noted, referencing existing ordinances that allow for the suspension of business licenses in cases of chronic nuisance.

As Tacoma grapples with the implications of nightlife on public safety, the committee's discussions signal a proactive approach to managing the challenges posed by late-night establishments. The proposed regulations aim to enhance oversight and ensure that businesses take responsibility for their patrons' behavior, particularly during peak hours when disturbances are most likely. The committee's next steps will be crucial in shaping the future of nightlife in Tacoma and safeguarding the community.