New Chattanooga beer code proposal approved

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Mayor Tim Kelly’s proposal to restructure the Beer and Wrecker Board has been approved. 

And the expected changes are dynamic.

“We really worked for about the last three years, coming up with a newer system to do it, and I think it is going to be streamlined and there will not be any delays for people getting their applications.” said Dan Mayfield, member of the Beer and Wrecker Board. 

Chattanooga’s beer code was last updated in the 1980s. 

The new beer code will decrease the distance that bars and restaurants are allowed to operate from childcare centers and schools.

Dan Mayfield with the Beer and Wrecker Board calls this new proposal a good idea. 

“This is going to be good for the merchants,” said Mayfield. “It is going to be good for new applications and new business of Chattanooga. I am glad to see it. I am glad to see it has changed the way we are doing it.”

According to the mayor’s office, new beer permits and investigations will also be handled through the Chattanooga Police Department. 

Chris Anderson with the mayor’s office believes the new ordinance is a faster process. 

“We are able to issue a lot more of the permits and do the investigations quicker, and without the need to go to the beer board,” said Anderson.

The new proposal’s mission is to protect children while also allowing local businesses to thrive. 

Anderson hopes these new ordinances will better the future of Chattanooga. 

“We hope that people will see a new Chattanooga Beer Board that is easier to interact with more efficient and more professional, to get the permits issued,” Anderson concluded.