On February 3, the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors approved a new winery ordinance that restricts some uses and provides support for improving sales. The ordinance limits the number of special events a winery can hold to 48 per year, and requires wineries to contribute to road maintenance costs on roads not maintained by the county.
These latest regulations came from neighbor complaints of traffic impacts and noise disturbances related to large special events. Supported by the county's two largest winery associations, the new ordinance also improves local economic development by allowing direct sales of value-added products and implementing general plan policies that promote the development of agricultural uses while protecting the agricultural character of the county. The ordinance further aims to lay a map for future winery development and growth.
To view the winery ordinance visit:
www.co.el-dorado.ca.us/ag/