Pickens commissioners approve conditional use for winery with tasting room and farm store

The Pickens County Board of Commissioners approved a conditional‑use permit allowing a winery, tasting room, farm store and limited events on a 247.96‑acre agricultural parcel owned by Sam Fritz.

Planning staff said the site (parcels listed in staff presentation) lies in the rural residential character area and that the proposed uses are consistent with preserving the rural character and view sheds. "The 247.96 acre site is situated within the rural development design area," staff said, recommending approval with conditions requiring cooperation with staff on safety protocols, parking, and that attendance be limited to capacity set by the fire marshal.

Applicant Sam Fritz told commissioners grapevines are already planted on site (about 919 vines to date, with more planned) and described plans for a tasting room, cooking classes, a farm store and occasional small events. Fritz said he expects small, mostly weekend events — "probably a Friday, Saturday type thing" — and that initial activity would be limited to occasional classes and tastings rather than a full‑time restaurant.

Staff and the commission noted the winery use itself is permitted in the zoning district and the conditional use covers the additional activities such as the farm store and classes. The commission moved, seconded and approved staff’s recommendation; staff said neighbors had been contacted and the county had received no recorded opposition during the hearing.

Conditions include compliance with fire marshal capacity limits, parking requirements and other applicable codes.