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BMZA approves live-entertainment permit for strip-center tavern in C2 district
Summary
Baltimore’s zoning appeals board approved a conditional use permitting live entertainment at a C-2 district tavern, with planning recommending soundproofing mitigation and hours limited to 7:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday; the applicant said the venue has long operated in the shopping center.
The Baltimore City Board of Municipal and Zoning Appeals on July 7 approved a conditional use that would allow live entertainment at a tavern located in a C-2 district.
Justin Walker, Department of Planning, said planning recommends approval for the request (case referenced beginning at SEG 154) if the live entertainment is accessory to a restaurant or tavern and includes sound-mitigation measures; the applicant proposed 40 to 80 decibels from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Wednesday through Sunday.
Counsel Melvin J. Cadensky said the establishment is long-standing in a strip shopping center with residential properties behind it; he described planned rear-wall soundproofing, on-site security and parking. “There’s karaoke and a DJ,” Cadensky said, describing the typical entertainment.
A board member moved to adopt planning’s findings and the board voted to approve the conditional use. Several board members noted members of the public had attended the hearing to show support.
Why it matters: the decision lets a neighborhood tavern offer live entertainment but attaches zoning conditions aimed at limiting noise and protecting nearby residents. The applicant must also comply with liquor-board requirements as applicable.
The BMZA will issue a written resolution in the coming weeks that will formalize the vote and any conditions the board imposed.
