Beer garden, ho! Banned words OK'd for Santa Paula businesses

Beer and liquor have been loaded terms for business signs in Santa Paula.

But on Wednesday, City Council members voted unanimously to end the prohibition on signs advertising "any kind of alcoholic beverage, including beer."

That means Santa Paula will soon allow signage that includes references to alcohol, although some restrictions can remain.

Under existing code, words like wine bar, vino, beer garden, ale house and brewery are not allowed, said James Mason, community and economic development director for the city.

"This is a more preemptive measure to ensure we are competitive and marketable as a business location for restaurant venues that may serve alcohol and have a name that is reflective of it," Mason said.

A second reading to confirm the change is set for Jan. 18. If approved, the new rules will start on Feb. 18.

Several businesses around town do have alcohol references in their names, like Jonesey’s Liquor, Four Guys Liquor and the Draft Sports Bar at Mupu Grill. That's allowed because the businesses predate the restrictive code that went into effect in July 2004, Mason said.

For establishments with names that were grandfathered in, signage doesn't have to follow city restrictions unless they expand, according to a staff report.

New businesses selling alcohol can't use certain words under the current code, which creates "somewhat of a double standard," the report says.

Mason didn't know why the city adopted the sign restrictions in 2004.

One existing business inquired about changing the city's rule and others — including microbreweries, wine bars and distilleries — have also approached the city with concerns about the current code, Mason said.

The change is overdue, said Councilwoman Leslie Cornejo.

"I just think that this is cleaning up what is in practice, what is happening already," Cornejo said. "I think it's an appropriate change that I don't think is going to cause much distress to the community."

Greg Grimes, owner of the Draft Sports Bar at Mupu Grill, said the word "draft" actually refers to a sports draft and not draft beer. He said Tuesday he was not a fan of the existing sign code.

"My thoughts are: You name your business what you want to be known as," said Grimes, whose establishment sells beer, wine, liquor and food. "I'm not going to be the candy house grill."

Some council members had questions about potential issues. Councilwoman Jenny Crosswhite asked what would happen if a business owner wanted a curse word for a name.

Mason said the city has the latitude to deny a name that is "deemed not appropriate."

Wes Woods II covers West County for the Ventura County Star. Reach him at wesley.woodsii@vcstar.com, 805-437-0262 or @JournoWes.

This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Beer, vino? You're on. Banned words OK'd for Santa Paula businesses