WELLINGTON, Fla. -- Some changes are on the table on Tuesday for the nightlife scene in Wellington.
The village council is looking at new rules on what they consider nightclubs, which includes several bars and restaurants throughout the area.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office recommended that the village propose some guidelines for these establishments after some issues with crime outside one particular restaurant in August. Those proposed guidelines include increased security and ID checks.
According to village documents, the bars and restaurants that fall under the category of a "nightclub" in Wellington include JoJo’s Raw Bar and Grill, Flanigan’s, Bonefish Mac's Sports Grille and Oli’s Fashion Cuisine.
Another one is Suri West, which is where PBSO says two teens and three adults were arrested in August for a fight after a rap concert.
According to Wellington's Public Safety Committee, if a business collects a cover charge and sells alcohol, it is considered a nightclub. Weddings and birthday parties, or events requiring tickets, are not considered nightclubs since they do not operate continuously.
The village has posted documents and reports with additional details on the proposed ordinance. Click here to download and learn more.
In the ordinance, the village is considering enforcing the following rules for establishments considered nightclubs:
- One security guard per 150 people
- Security would be required inside and outside the establishment
- Guards would need a Class D Florida security license or be an off-duty law enforcement officer
- ID checks during nightclub hours
- No one under 21 allowed in during nightclub hours, unless working there or if in the military with proper ID
Wellington currently does not have any rules regarding nightlife, therefore the guidelines were modeled after existing rules in Palm Beach County.
The village council meeting starts at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Village Hall. The public is invited to attend.
