Findlay commission approves 7 Brew drive-through at 1950 Tiffin Ave with parking and landscaping conditions

The City of Findlay Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of site plan SP-02-2026 and conditional use CU-06-2025 filed by 7 Brew Coffee to construct a drive-through on a new outlot at 1950 Tiffin Avenue.

CPC staff briefed the commission on a notable constraint: a view-shed easement held by DICK’S Sporting Goods that required the applicant to shift the building farther from Tiffin Avenue. That adjustment reduced on-lot parking, so the developer is working with Hobby Lobby to secure off-site parking; staff said the arrangement will require BZA variances for off-site parking and the canopy side-yard setback. Staff proposed several conditions: obtain the variances, install parking signage to clarify where required parking is provided, use panel materials on equipment to match the primary structure, and add curbing and landscaping along Tiffin Avenue to discourage use of a no-build striped area in front of the site.

Engineering and fire prevention raised standard utility and inspection items; engineering requested details about sanitary pipe specification and a smoother access aisle per the city’s standards. The applicant agreed to address staff comments on access, signage and lighting.

Staff recommended approval subject to the listed conditions; the commission approved the recommendation by roll call vote. The approval is conditioned on securing required variances and completing the curbing/landscaping improvements before permits are issued.

What’s next: Applicant must obtain BZA variances and finalize off-site parking arrangements with Hobby Lobby, complete the curbing and landscaping plan with staff and obtain building permits and inspections.