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Deep Creek BZA approves Blackthorn Cellars farm-winery special exception with conditions after neighbor safety concerns
Summary
The Deep Creek Watershed Board of Zoning Appeals approved Michael Owen’s application for a farm winery, tasting room and catering facility (special exception 5-11) at 2781 Sandflat Road, imposing standard conditions on outdoor entertainment, lighting and parking after neighbors raised traffic, dust and access safety concerns.
The Deep Creek Watershed Board of Zoning Appeals voted to approve a special-exception application from Michael Owen, trading as Blackthorn Cellars, to operate a farm winery with a tasting room and occasional outdoor events at 2781 Sandflat Road.
Chairman Bruce Swift opened the public hearing and heard testimony from the applicant, county staff and an adjoining neighbor before moving to deliberation. Owen told the board he plans to plant grapes, make wine on site and operate a tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating. He said typical hours would be limited "most likely, you know, operating 12 to 6 type of hours," and that events would be occasional. The applicant said he aimed to site…
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