Metro Council Beer Distance-Requirement Exemption (Restaurant): Nashville restaurant guide

Metro Council / Metro Beer Permit Board

What it is

Beer permits can't normally be issued within 100 ft of a place of worship, school or playground, park, licensed day care, or one- or two-family dwelling. Restaurants can be exempted by a Council resolution after a public hearing.

When a restaurant needs it

Only if your location is within 100 ft of a protected use and not in the DTC or CF zoning districts, which are exempt.

How to apply

Request a Council resolution through your district Council member. Public notice follows zoning-map rules: mailed notice to properties within 600 ft and a posted sign, both at least 14 days before the hearing.

Documents you’ll need

Distance survey/measurement
Notification mailing list and posted sign
Beer permit application

Fee

Applicant pays the public notification costs

Processing time

Varies — tied to Council meeting cycles (often 1–3 months)

Renewal

None

Who files

The applicant or attorney works with the district Council member who sponsors the resolution.

Good to know

Check the 100-ft rule before you sign a lease. Permits held continuously since before May 26, 1992 are grandfathered.

Official source

Metro Code Chapter 7.08 — beer permits · Beer Permit Board laws (PDF)

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.