Council approves zoning change to allow farm breweries and distilleries

The Dorchester County Council on Aug. 4 approved Bill 2026‑8, an amendment to the county zoning code to permit farm breweries and distilleries as a use in defined zoning categories. The public hearing drew one speaker—William Layton of Layton's Chance Winery—who urged the council to support niche agricultural enterprises that help small farms remain profitable.

"Agriculture is changing... we need to find niche products where we can bring consumers onto our farm and sell these products directly to consumers," William Layton said in his remarks supporting the change. Councilmembers voiced support for the measure during discussion as a way to preserve farmland by offering alternative revenue streams for smaller operations. The council took a roll-call vote (Travers, Detmer, Kramer, Halami recorded as 'yes') and the bill passed.

The amendment was presented as a zoning update to chapter 155 and 155.50 (supplementary use regulations). Officials said the change is intended to permit on‑farm value‑added enterprises—such as wineries, breweries and distilleries—so farmers can attract visitors and sell products on site. The planning/land‑use staff will proceed with ordinance implementation steps and schedule any necessary administrative updates to permitting processes.