In some cases these requirements will preclude the issuance of a site plan exemption. In other cases the exemption may be granted, but the applicant should be advised that other regulations must be met before the business can open. Refer to the Land Development Code, Sections 25-5-146 (B), 25-2-587(D), 25-2-808 and 25-6-471 (C).

  1. Restaurant is an establishment engaged in the preparation and retail sale of food and beverages for on-premise consumption or in a ready-to-consume state. Restaurants are further classified as General or Limited. Only a Restaurant-General may serve alcoholic beverages. At least 51% of the gross income must be derived from the sale of prepared food. A restaurant use is first allowed in the LR Neighborhood Commercial District.
  2. Cocktail lounge is a business engaged in the preparation and retail sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises. Uses such as billiard parlors, dance halls, and live music venues may be included in this category if alcohol sales exceed 49% of the gross revenue. A cocktail lounge use is permitted in the CBD district, and conditional in the L, DMU, CS-1 and CH districts.
  3. Liquor sales refer to an establishment engaged in retail sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premise. A liquor sales use is permitted in the CBD, DMU, CS-1 and CH districts and conditional in the LI and MI districts.
  4. Alcoholic beverage permit is a permit issued by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission authorizing the sale of alcoholic beverages.
  5. Late-hours permit is a permit issued by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission authorizing a restaurant to serve alcohol between midnight and 2:00 a.m.