Zoning Regulations for Breweries and Tasting Rooms in Concord
In the City of Concord, facilities for the production and tasting of alcoholic beverages, such as micro-breweries and tasting rooms, are permitted within specific commercial and mixed-use zoning districts, often requiring a Minor Use Permit (MP) or Use Permit (UP). These uses must comply with strict operational standards defined in the Concord Development Code, particularly regarding outdoor areas and the associated sales of alcoholic beverages [Section 18.20.030].
Classification of Breweries and Tasting Rooms
The Concord Development Code defines the following facilities under the "Eating and Drinking Establishments" classification:
- Micro-brewery/micro-distillery: A facility for the production and packaging of alcoholic beverages for distribution, retail, or wholesale, on or off premises [Section 18.20.030].
- Tasting room: A facility allowing on-site tasting of alcoholic beverages and retail sales directly to the public [Section 18.20.030].
Zoning Districts and Permit Requirements
The following table outlines the permit requirements for these uses in various zoning districts as established by the Concord Development Code.
| Land Use | CO | CMX | NC | SC | RC | DP | DMX | WMX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro-Brewery/Distillery | – | – | – | MP | MP | MP | MP | MP |
| Micro-Brewery/Distillery, Large | – | – | – | UP | UP | UP | UP | UP |
| Tasting Room | – | – | – | AP | AP | AP | AP | AP |
(Note: "–" indicates the use is not allowed; "AP" = Administrative Permit; "MP" = Minor Use Permit; "UP" = Use Permit; "ZC" = Zoning Clearance. Requirements for OBP, IBP, IMX, and HI districts can be found in Sections 18.50.020.)
Operational and Development Standards
All micro-breweries, micro-distilleries, and tasting rooms must adhere to the following general requirements:
- Outdoor Eating Areas: Outdoor eating areas are permitted as an accessory use to a micro-brewery, micro-distillery, or tasting room, provided they are consistent with the standards for sidewalk cafes and outdoor eating areas [Section 18.200.190].
- Alcoholic Beverage Sales: Establishments must meet all applicable California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) regulations. Findings of Public Convenience and Necessity (FOPCN) may be required if there is an undue concentration of licenses in the area [Section 18.200.040].
- Parking: Parking requirements are determined by the specific use and the zoning district in which the facility is located, as outlined in the parking standards tables [Section 18.160.040].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.20.030 (Definitions)
- 18.50.020 (Table 18.50.020 – Business park and industrial districts – Allowed uses and permit requirements)
- 18.160.040 (Parking requirements)
- 18.200.040 (Alcoholic beverage sales)
- 18.200.190 (Sidewalk cafes and outdoor eating areas)