TUSTIN : Rule Tightens Limits on Sale of Alcohol

Liquor stores, bars and other businesses that serve or sell alcohol face strict limits on where they can set up shop under an ordinance passed by the City Council on Monday.

The 4-1 vote was over the strong objections of Councilman Michael J. Doyle, who said the establishments should be evaluated individually.

“We have enough restrictions put on us by government as it is,” said Doyle, a restaurant owner. The new law “is just Big Brother as far as I’m concerned.”

But supporters of the ordinance, endorsed by the Planning Commission, disagreed.

“Too many liquor stores contribute to blight in the city,” Councilwoman Tracy Worley said.

Under the ordinance, liquor stores and other “off-site” establishments must now be at least 300 feet away from residential areas, 500 feet from other liquor stores and 600 feet from churches, schools or parks.

“On-site” establishments such as bars and taverns, which were not previously subject to restrictions, are now required to be 1,000 feet from residential areas, 1,000 feet from other bars and 1,000 feet from a church, school or park.

“We will still evaluate [businesses] when they apply for permits,” said Rita Westfield, assistant director of community development. “But if you’re not 1,000 feet away, you can’t even apply.”