Council asks law department to study limits on new gas stations and car washes

The Livonia City Council voted unanimously to have the law department study whether the city may legally limit the number of gas stations and car washes, after council members voiced neighborhood concerns about new proposals. Councilwoman Toye asked that the matter be referred for report and recommendation from the law department, citing frequent community inquiries and a rumored proposal for a station at the former Debucca/DeBepo restaurant site on 8 Mile. “I’m not saying I’m supporting it or not supporting it. I just think it behooves us to look at what that’s all about,” Toye said. Council members said land‑use constraints and constitutional protections for lawful businesses may limit the city’s authority to forbid otherwise‑permitted commercial uses, and the law department’s analysis will focus on legal options that avoid unconstitutional taking or discrimination. One council member advised caution, noting land‑use restrictions are subject to legal challenge if they amount to an improper prohibition of lawful commerce. The clerk recorded a 7‑0 vote in favor of the referral. City staff and the law department are expected to return a written report outlining legal constraints, zoning tools the city could use (if any), and potential consequences of any regulatory changes.