Planning commission approves outdoor patio for In Factory Brewing on Shutter Avenue

The Jacksonville Beach Planning Commission voted to approve a conditional use permit allowing outdoor seating and beer-and-wine service at In Factory Brewing, a microbrewery and taproom at 602 Shutter Avenue in Jacksonville Beach.

Staff told the commission the application (PC 15-25) seeks to convert part of onsite parking into a dedicated, fenced outdoor patio and to reconfigure three full-size parking spaces into six golf-cart spaces, citing changes in the city’s Land Development Code that now allow outdoor seating in the Commercial Service (CS) district. Planning staff concluded the proposal met the applicable code criteria and recommended approval.

Owner Ty Wallace, sworn before the commission, said the patio is intended to improve family- and dog-friendly access to the business and to support community fundraising events. “I’m here really for two reasons tonight. I want to readdress our commitment to our community ... to promote a family friendly environment,” Wallace said, adding the business has operated for five years and has “had zero complaints” on record.

Nearby business owners and residents who spoke at public comment supported the request. Jennifer Peaco, whose auto repair business sits across the street, told the commission the brewery had been “great neighbors” and that an outdoor seating area would be “great for a little industrial spot.” Longtime resident Terry Deloach said the brewery’s presence had reduced problems associated with homelessness on the block and praised its family-focused events.

Commission members asked about parking and circulation; staff and the applicant said the reconfiguration would not reduce total parking capacity and would add bicycle racks and six golf-cart spaces. City staff noted the LDC previously limited outdoor events at the site to six per year via the special-event permit process; the conditional use would allow a permanent outdoor seating area regulated by fencing requirements and the code section governing sale of beer and wine in conjunction with a taproom.

After public comment the commission moved and seconded a motion to approve PC 15-25. The roll call vote was recorded as five in favor and none opposed; the item passed.

The commission discussed and confirmed conditions tied to code standards on fencing and parking configuration; staff will verify final drawings and required fencing and landscape details as part of the permitting/inspection process.