Commission recommends Barkside dog‑bar and park; site plan approved, to go to City Council for special use

The Planning Commission on Feb. 19 recommended favorable special‑land‑use approval and unanimously approved the site plan for Barkside, a proposed bar paired with a supervised indoor/outdoor dog park at 15640 West 11 Mile Road.

Applicants David and Cody Williams described the concept as Metro Detroit’s first dog‑bar and said their Detroit location opened in late 2023. They told commissioners Barkside requires vaccinations and registration for dogs, enforces double‑gated entry and trained staff monitor play; staff were trained through Michigan Humane and in‑house programs. Operating hours presented to the commission were Monday–Friday 2 p.m.–10 p.m. and weekend hours of 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

Planning staff recommended a favorable special‑land‑use determination for the site in the NS (neighborhood shopping) district and said no zoning waivers were required. Approval was conditioned on implementing recommendations from the Southfield Police Department’s Crime Prevention Bureau, consultation with animal control as needed, compliance with applicable codes and the submitted plans.

A resident who spoke during the special‑use public comment period said she was “a little bit on a fence” about alcohol in a dog venue and preferred coffee, but commissioners noted Barkside also offers a coffee/espresso option and emphasized training, vaccination verification and operational controls. Commissioners asked about separation for dog sizes, capacity limits, water hygiene and staff training; applicants said staff monitor capacity dynamically and change water bowls frequently and that Michigan Humane helped develop procedures.

Commissioners voted to recommend the special land use to City Council and approved the site plan subject to the conditions summarized by staff. The item will proceed to council for the special‑use decision.