Okotoks Town Council approved a zoning land use bylaw amendment Tuesday night, regarding microbreweries, distilleries and wineries.

Until yesterday, these types of ventures were restricted to industrial districts only. Okotoks Town Council has approved an amendment to the land use bylaw, now allowing these businesses in some commercial districts.

Development Planner for the Town of Okotoks, Craig Davies, says this will ease the burden for new businesses in Okotoks.

"This gives more flexibility to new businesses that will establish themselves within the town. The use is discretionary use, so it will have to meet certain parameters and performance standards," he said.

Davies says there has been high interest for Okotoks from potential business owners wanting to start microbreweries or distilleries, or wineries, so this is a welcomed change.

"There's been quite a bit of interest. There's been a real interest in craft beverage manufacturing. You can see that in some of our neighbouring municipalities," said Davies.

The amendment will now allow for microbreweries, distilleries and wineries discretionary uses in most commercial and industrial districts, potentially increasing local employment, tourism and vitality to the chosen areas.

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