Fishers' Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) convened on June 30, 2025, to discuss a significant variance request from King Jug, a local establishment seeking to expand its outdoor seating area. The proposal aims to enhance the venue's outdoor offerings, which have already seen substantial investment and development since the initial variance approval in March 2023.

Randy DeJohn, representing King Jug, detailed the improvements made to the property, including over $185,000 invested in the outdoor area, which was previously poorly maintained. The establishment now seeks to add two new outdoor areas—a standing area and a seated area—alongside the existing covered patio, which has a maximum occupancy of 84 people. The new areas would allow for a total capacity of up to 320 patrons during standing events.

The request aligns with the Fishers 2040 comprehensive plan, which designates the site for neighborhood mixed-use, allowing for both residential and commercial activities. However, the proposal has raised concerns among nearby residents regarding potential noise, parking issues, and patron behavior. Residents have expressed worries about the impact of increased occupancy on local traffic and disorderly conduct.

In response to these concerns, King Jug has implemented a shuttle service for off-site parking and has worked closely with city officials to establish conditions for the outdoor space. These conditions include restrictions on the type of music allowed, limiting performances to acoustic sounds without amplified instruments.

The BZA staff recommended approval of the variance with specific conditions to mitigate potential issues, emphasizing the importance of balancing community interests with the establishment's growth. The board's decision will play a crucial role in shaping the future of outdoor entertainment in Fishers, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to enhance local business while addressing community concerns.