The advent of alcohol sales in Jackson County has prompted the Cashiers community to consider new land-use regulations to address the probable arrival of bars in the resort village.

The commercial area of Cashiers already has a development ordinance. The changes would “ensure that (alcohol sales) did not have adverse impact on the surrounding properties,” said County Planner Gerald Green.

The new regulation would require structures where alcohol is served to be at least 50 feet from a church or school. Sound from music or other types of entertainment may not rise above 75 decibels after 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Establishments that serve alcohol must follow the same parking, outdoor lighting and outdoor music standards as other businesses. The proposed change would add a definition for bars, taverns, nightclubs and other establishments serving alcohol such as a restaurant or brewery.

The Jackson County Board of Commissioners will host a public hearing at 5:40 p.m. June 18 to get feedback on changes to the Cashiers Commercial Area Development Ordinance.

By Caitlin Bowling