Milton Eases Alcohol Code, Ends Happy Hour Restrictions

MILTON, GA — Milton's City Council on Monday night unanimously approved a rewrite of "Chapter 4," the section of the city code dealing with alcoholic beverages, as part of efforts to make Milton an even better place to live, play and do business.

This project began in September 2019, when the city retained the law firm of Taylor English Duma to begin exploring ways to support Milton entrepreneurs while reflecting Milton's values. Over the subsequent months, City of Milton committees, including the planning commission and city council, discussed the topic during sessions, while public input was sought out as well.

Big picture, the rewrite aimed to spur economic development and set Milton apart from other communities. The initiative's three main goals were:

1. To streamline Milton's existing alcohol-related ordinance to make it easier for business owners, city staff and citizens to understand
2. To allow for new opportunities for different types of viable businesses in Milton
3. To create new revenue streams for the city

The most innovative change adopted on Monday adjusts restaurants' alcohol-to-food sales ratio. Previously, it was 50:50, meaning no more than half of overall revenues could come from alcohol. Now it's 70:30, so up to 70 percent of sales can come from alcohol. Bars remain strictly prohibited in Milton, just like before. That said, this change can allow craft cocktail establishments to succeed within the city. Notably, this approach is unique to Milton, neighboring communities don't have the same ratio, which can help the city attract distinct establishments that residents and visitors will enjoy.

In addition, the Chapter 4 rewrite ended "happy hour" restrictions in Milton. And if they obtain the required licenses, restaurants will be able to serve packaged beer and wine much like they've been allowed to do, as part of a special emergency measure, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The revision also paves the way for the arrival of breweries, micro-breweries, distilleries, micro-distilleries, food halls, courtyard markets, and city food markets in Milton. Any of these could be "placemaking" establishments, i.e. something that makes an area a destination and gives it a unique identity, and, as such, anchors for developments. The revamped Chapter 4 allows for craft beer and wine markets in which customers can drink on the premises (both a full glass and samples) or retail packaging to go.

Sunday alcohol sales will be allowed with revised hours to match the state's guidelines. And before, servers needed to obtain a "pouring permit" annually. Now, the same permit lasts two years.

Special accommodations have been made, too, for those whose main business isn't necessarily food or alcohol related. Any licensed Milton establishment, for instance, can obtain a "Grand Opening/Annual Promotion Permit" giving it a four-hour window (once a year) to celebrate with beer and wine. While such establishments can't charge for these drinks, they won't be charged either by the city for this permit for occasions like a grand opening, holiday party or open house.

The city council passed Chapter 4 as presented, though further modifications are possible. Specifically, discussions are planned regarding regulations about farm wineries.

If you have questions about the Chapter 4 rewrite or business in Milton, contact the city's Economic Development Manager Sarah LaDart at sarah.ladart@cityofmiltonga.us.