JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Downtown Jacksonville is taking steps to become more vibrant, and a new ordinance may help shape what that future looks like.
An ordinance introduced during Tuesday night’s City Council meeting is expected to be the next step in reshaping downtown life. It would set rules for outdoor dining, sidewalk cafes, and alcohol service in public-facing spaces.
It’s all part of the city’s plan to make downtown more inviting and accessible.
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This ordinance sets clear rules for how businesses operate in the heart of Jacksonville, whether you’re grabbing a coffee, enjoying a cocktail, or dining outside.
These are some of the proposed changes:
- Alcohol can now be consumed in three key areas:
- Inside the business
- On a patio directly next to the building
- In a recreational area connected to the business — like a pool, golf zone, or similar space — as long as it meets city distance requirements
- Sidewalk cafes must be adjacent to the business and can expand seating into nearby sidewalks — but only with approval from the Downtown Investment Authority.
- Bars must serve drinks from inside the building and take steps to keep alcohol within the designated area
- This includes using barriers, staff supervision, or surveillance to prevent underage or public drinking
Restaurants must prepare food on-site, earn at least 51% of their revenue from food and nonalcoholic beverages, and follow cleanliness and maintenance codes.
These rules apply specifically to businesses in the Downtown Overlay Zone — including key redevelopment districts such as the Northbank, Southbank, Cathedral District, LaVilla and Sports & Entertainment District.