Board of Zoning Appeals | July 2, 2026

The City of Columbia Board of Zoning Appeals held a meeting on July 2, 2026, primarily to consider a special exception request to establish a small-scale liquor store at 1701 Rosewood Avenue, Unit A, within an existing convenience store. The applicant, represented by an attorney, emphasized compliance with zoning standards, the absence of new construction, and voluntary operational safeguards such as closing at midnight to mitigate neighborhood concerns. The board reviewed staff comments, community input including opposition from a neighborhood association, and a petition supporting the application. After discussion, the board found that the proposal met all applicable zoning decision standards and approved the special exception permit. No new construction or expansion was involved, and the applicant had already obtained a temporary retail liquor license from the state. The board also noted that state regulations govern liquor store operating hours, limiting them to closing by 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays.