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Council approves first reading of alcohol ordinance text amendments clarifying school distance definitions and measurement methods
Summary
Council approved first reading of amendments to Chapter 4 (Alcohol) to clarify definitions (including 'school' and 'school grounds'), update distance measurement procedures, and remove certain distance restrictions for eating establishments adjacent to schools, with staff to return for final reading.
On first reading the Alpharetta City Council approved proposed amendments to Chapter 4 of the city code (the alcohol ordinance) clarifying definitions and distance measurement methods for establishments that sell alcohol.
City attorney staff and Miss Shapiro explained the revisions address how distance from a school or school grounds should be measured, which facilities qualify as a school for the purpose of the ordinance, and how to treat eating establishments versus package‑sale retailers. The proposed language narrows when a distance survey is required and removes some distance restrictions for food‑service restaurants adjacent to schools, while retaining stricter separation for package sales when a school is present.
Councilman Dorito asked for clarification about schools that operate within non‑traditional spaces (for example, a school program in an office building); staff said the ordinance's revised definitions and survey process will determine whether a proposed alcohol license triggers a distance measurement requirement, and that the applicant must submit a licensed surveyor’s measurement where necessary.
No public comments were presented and council approved the first reading; staff will bring final ordinance language for the second reading.
