Greenville, SC, October 6, 2025
News Summary
The Greenville City Council is holding a workshop to discuss potential modifications to existing regulations for bars and microbreweries. The proposal aims to enhance operational flexibility for microbreweries by allowing them to sell mixed beverages, while also addressing concerns about community safety and the impact of additional bars. The council will consider expanding the maximum size for bars to accommodate more establishments downtown, with further discussions slated for upcoming meetings.
Greenville City Council Discusses Modifications to Microbrewery and Bar Regulations at Workshop Session
The Greenville City Council is set to continue discussions on the modification of regulations for bars and microbreweries in the city at a workshop on Monday. This session is scheduled for 4 p.m. at City Hall, located at 200 W. Fifth St. The council will address proposed changes to the existing rules that govern microbreweries and bars, with a focus on enhancing the local business landscape and community safety.
Proposed Changes for Microbreweries
Currently, microbreweries in Greenville have the ability to sell their beer both on-site and for take-out but are restricted from selling liquor or wine. In a new proposal, city staff suggest granting microbreweries a mixed beverage permit from the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission. This change aims to provide microbreweries with greater operational flexibility and the potential for increased revenue.
Review of Bar Regulations
The council meeting will also review possible modifications to the Bar 2022 rules. At the previous council meeting, staff provided an overview of how these rules govern bar operations. Since the Bar 2022 ordinance was enacted, only two new bars have opened downtown, raising concerns about maintaining a healthy balance between different business types in the area. Discussions will include whether to increase the maximum allowable square footage for bars from 2,000 to larger sizes, potentially expanding to 3,500 or even up to 5,000 square feet. If approved, this adjustment could lead to an increase in eligible locations for bars, potentially allowing for 171 establishments if the limit is set to 5,000 square feet.
Community Safety Concerns
Concerns voiced by council members include the potential negative impact on neighborhoods if the number of bars increases significantly. There are worries about “bad actors” opening bars that could contribute to crime in the area. Strategies for ensuring community safety will be discussed, including loitering regulations and security plans for bars. Staff suggested that the Bar 2022 rules could also facilitate bar operations in locations outside the downtown area, promoting convenience for community members.
Upcoming Meetings and Presentations
Followed by the workshop, a regular council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. that evening. During this session, the Pitt County Arts Council will present plans for public art installations featuring sculptures along Dickinson Avenue and surrounding areas. This project, which is expected to cost around $3,500, aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area post-road construction. The Arts Council has requested in-kind services from the city for installation and materials.
Future Discussions
Further discussions on the Unified Development Ordinance proposal are anticipated, with a public hearing recommended for Oct. 21 and another scheduled for Nov. 13. The council’s commitment to reviewing and potentially reforming these regulations reflects ongoing efforts to balance business growth with community needs.
Conclusion
The workshop on Monday will be a significant opportunity for the Greenville City Council to engage with staff and community members regarding essential modifications to local regulations governing microbreweries and bars. As the city navigates these potential changes, the outcomes may have long-term implications for the community’s business environment and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Greenville City Council workshop scheduled for Monday?
The workshop aims to continue discussions about modifying rules for bars and microbreweries.
What specific proposal is being considered for microbreweries?
A proposal suggests that microbreweries be granted a mixed beverage permit from the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission.
What are the current restrictions on microbreweries?
Microbreweries can sell their beer on-site and to-go but are not allowed to sell liquor or wine.
When is the public hearing for the Unified Development Ordinance proposal?
The public hearing is recommended for October 21 and another is scheduled for November 13.
What is the cost associated with the Pitt County Arts Council’s project?
The Arts Council plans to spend $3,500 on the project.
What are the council’s concerns regarding additional bars opening?
Council members are concerned about maintaining a balance between bars and other businesses, particularly in downtown areas, and the potential negative impacts on neighborhoods.
Key Features of Proposed Changes
| Aspect | Current Rule | Proposed Change |
|---|---|---|
| Microbrewery Sales | Allowed to sell beer on-site and to-go; prohibited from selling liquor or wine | Grant mixed beverage permit from Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission |
| Bar Size Limit | Maximum 2,000 square feet | Increase to 3,500 – 5,000 square feet |
| Bar Count | Two bars opened since Bar 2022 | Potentially eligible for 171 bars if size limit is increased |
| Community Concerns | Concerns about crime and balance with other businesses | Possibly improve regulations to maintain neighborhood integrity |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WCTI: Greenville City Council Revisits Brewery Liquor Service Proposal
- Reflector: Greenville Council Continuing Bar & Microbrewery Discussions
- Reflector: Greenville City Council Works to Balance Bar Rules
- Greenville Online: Boutique Hotel and Brewery Developments
- Wikipedia: Greenville, South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
