Pickens County OKs conditional use for winery events on 30.61-acre parcel

The Pickens County Board of Commissioners voted to approve a conditional use permit allowing a vineyard to expand event activities — including small weddings, festivals and music performances — on a 30.61-acre parcel identified as parcel 002001007.

A planning staff member told the board that the site is in the county’s agricultural district and is designated in the comprehensive plan as rural residential. “Staff recommends conditional approval for winery related activities on a tract of approximately 31.61 acres,” the staff member said, and listed conditions including working with staff on safety and parking, limiting attendance to the maximum capacity determined by the fire marshal and requiring that amplified sound associated with events cease by 10 p.m.

The applicant, identified in the hearing as Charles, said the winery already…