JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – Jacksonville Beach city leaders narrowly passed an ordinance amendment on Monday night that will create a two-year pilot program to allow some bars and restaurants to temporarily expand their outdoor capacity on Jaguars game days.
In a 4-3 vote, the Jacksonville Beach City Council approved the change on its second reading.
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Mayor Chris Hoffman had previously said the proposal is aimed at easing pressure on local businesses as the Jaguars prepare for the 2026 season while EverBank Stadium undergoes the “Stadium of the Future” renovation project, a plan expected to reduce the number of fans who can attend games. The Jaguars are also scheduled to play in Orlando for the 2027 season.
“I do think some businesses will take advantage of the opportunity to have more fans at their businesses cheering on the Jags,” Hoffman said.
Under the amended ordinance, eligible establishments will have to apply for permits to extend service into approved outdoor areas on game days. Hoffman said the process would include requirements designed to limit impacts on surrounding neighborhoods.
“Our bar and restaurant community has been very positive,” Hoffman said. “There’s still a lot of barriers. It’s not easy. You still have to go through a permitting process.”
As currently written, the pilot would apply only to outdoor areas and only on Jaguars game days, beginning one hour before kickoff and ending one hour after the game.
Businesses would be required to provide added security and submit a parking plan. The ordinance also would not allow additional amplified sound beyond the game broadcast, and existing laws would still apply.
“This does not allow for open container outside of the premises or anything like that,” Hoffman said.
Now that the amendment has been approved, businesses can begin applying for permits ahead of the season.