Athens City Code

1. (1) It is unlawful for any person to operate or maintain a liquor store for the retail sale of alcoholic beverages in the city unless at a location approved by city council. All such stores shall only be located within a B-2 or B-3 business district.
2. (2) Moreover, in no event shall such store be located within 500 feet of any building used as a school or church. The minimum distance requirement from a church shall only be applicable provided a church service is held at the church premises at least on one day of each week.
3. (3) The minimum distance requirement from a school shall only relate to any public school operated by the city or county or a private school, provided such school is licensed and accredited by the state to provide and is providing a kindergarten, elementary, or secondary education to students at the premises.
4. (4) Excepting any existing buildings currently subject to previous requirements, the minimum distance requirement in this section from certain buildings shall be measured in a straight line between the middle of the main entrance of the building proposed to sell alcoholic beverages and the front door of the building from which there must be a minimum distance.
5. (5) The minimum distance requirement in this section from certain buildings shall not be applicable with respect to the building of a local liquor store privilege licensee located within the downtown business district, which is defined as that area within the interior of the boundaries of Baxter Street, College Street, Hill Street, and Park Street. No liquor store shall be located where the operation of a liquor store at the premises contemplated by an application would unreasonably interfere with public health, safety, or morals.

(Ord. No. 1035, § 1(8-205), 3-17-2015; Ord. No. 1116, § 1, 5-16-2023)