Commission asks staff and attorney to draft inspection policy for short-term liquor events

At the March 19 meeting the Northampton Licensing Commission directed staff to work with the town attorney to draft a written policy establishing when the building and fire departments should inspect premises tied to short-term liquor licenses.

Commissioner Natasha Yakovlev said the change follows prior conversation and legal guidance from Attorney Seewald and that the commission needs a formal policy included in its rules and regulations. Building Commissioner Kevin Ross advised commissioners on technical thresholds for tents and inspection triggers.

Annie, a licensing staff member, and Kevin Ross proposed that the commission rely on building‑department criteria — specifically, to require inspections for establishments that are not inspected annually and for outdoor events that use a tent that is 200 square feet or greater. Ross cautioned that tents enclosed on more than 50% of their area can trigger additional requirements, such as exit signage and emergency lighting.

The commission did not take a formal vote on a final policy. Instead, commissioners asked staff to provide the rationale and the proposed scope to Attorney Seewald so the attorney can draft proposed language for the commission to consider at a future meeting. Commissioners said they would rely on Kevin Ross’s recommendations for technical thresholds in the draft.

Ending

The item resulted in direction to staff rather than a final policy vote: staff will deliver proposed inspection criteria and reasons to Attorney Seewald, who will prepare a draft policy for the commission’s consideration.