BOA approves on‑premise alcohol use within 1,000 feet of place of worship on Pine Forest Road

The Escambia County Board of Adjustment on April 16 unanimously approved a conditional use to permit on‑premise alcohol consumption at a proposed restaurant on Pine Forest Road, despite the site measuring approximately 400 feet from a nearby place of worship.

County staff presented maps, photos and an analysis of the LDC criteria specific to alcohol uses. Staff reported that the place of worship (Redemption Church) holds services at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Sundays and 6 p.m. on Wednesdays and that the applicant proposes restaurant hours of about 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Staff noted the measurement in the record was taken from the existing house on the property and that the final building placement could change; staff also said the applicant indicated the restaurant will be indoor‑oriented and that buffering, fencing and building positioning can help mitigate visibility and compatibility concerns.

Fernando Chavez, representing the local applicant, was sworn and acknowledged he had received the criteria and findings. The board discussed that Bush Street is an unimproved right‑of‑way and that ingress and egress to the proposed site are expected to use Pine Forest Road; staff said a pre‑application DRC review had been conducted and that any proposed access to Bush Street would require additional review and improvements. Staff also reminded the board that county zoning verification is required before a state alcohol license is issued and that any outdoor seating areas would require separate conditional use review.

Board member Willie moved approval; Randy seconded. The BOA voted 5-0 to approve the conditional use, conditioned on completing development review, obtaining required county zoning verification and securing any necessary permits. No representatives from the nearby church testified in person at the hearing.