Orlando Downtown Allows For New Bars and Clubs Under One Condition

In a somewhat non surprising vote, one that was actually unanimous the Orlando City Commissioners changed the downtown scene instantly. On one hand they voted to remove a stop on building and licensing new bars and nightclub construction and on the other hand also imposed a limit on the distance between existing bars or clubs.

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We reported on this bill nearly a month ago when the debate was taking place. This was a long and sometimes heated back and forth with both sides having a legitimate stance after crime statistics became front and center to the debate.

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The construction moratorium was enacted in 2023 by the city after an increase in crime downtown continued to trend up after lockdowns from the pandemic were lifted. Opponents of the legislation thought downtown was already safe and families could go out at Disney Springs, and adults only should be able to enjoy nightlife downtown.

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In theory that could make sense, but proponents came with crime statistics that did not paint a positive scene at night in Orlando. In June alone there were 22 fights and 24 firearms seized on top of 144 arrests. This moratorium first went into effect on March 20, 2023 and prohibits the opening of new nightclubs in the Community Redevelopment Agency(PDF, 631KB) . On April 1, 2024, City Council extended the moratorium for another six months. On September 20, 2024, the moratorium will expire as it was not renewed.

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The city's Downtown Entertainment Area consists of more than 100 restaurants, clubs and bars that sell alcohol past midnight. Increased attendance, safety incidents and code violations have contributed toward requests to better regulate these late-night uses.

All of the existing nightclubs and bars currently operating downtown are now grandfathered in meaning they are exempt from the 300ft rule but they will not be permitted if a current bar or nightclub tries to expand. In the new rule, if a bar or nightclub is forced to close for more than six months, it will be closed permanently. There were no details on the reasons for closure that may be exempt at this time.

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The vote was unanimous even though the initial review was not. The end result is Orlando feels this will help drive economic growth and safety downtown.

The following definitions were approved and adopted by the City Council at the December 5, 2022, meeting:

Bar: A commercial establishment where the principal use is the sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption on premises. Entertainment and limited food options may be offered but are incidental to the sale of alcoholic beverages. This includes restaurants where greater than 49% of the gross revenue is derived from alcoholic beverage sales.

Nightclub: Any establishment which provides entertainment after midnight, including but not limited to floor shows, assembly areas, live bands, DJ’s, dancing (by patrons or employees) or other forms of entertainment. These establishments typically have a cover charge or admission, a dance floor or assembly area, offer bottle service, or sell/rent private booths, areas or rooms (excluding theaters).

Restaurant: A commercial establishment that is open to the public where food and drink is prepared for on-site consumption. Take out or meal delivery may occur but onsite consumption must be able to occur. Restaurants must be licensed through the State of Florida and must derive at least 51% of gross revenue from sales of food and non-alcoholic beverages. Food shall be continuously ready to be prepared, served, and sold during all business operational hours, including when alcoholic beverages are sold, otherwise the use may be a bar or nightclub.