A St. Johns County couple is asking the county to allow their five-acre residential property on Cherry Tree Road to operate as a wedding and special events venue.
The property owners have filed for a Special Use Permit that would enable indoor and outdoor gatherings at 855 Cherry Tree Road, west of Old Moultrie Road.
Their application is scheduled for a public hearing before the county’s Planning and Zoning Agency this Thursday.
The proposal outlines use of existing structures on the property, open yard space, tents, and a planned open-air barn to host weddings, baby showers, corporate events and other celebrations.
According to the application, events could run seven days a week from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m., with music shut off by 10 p.m. and all guests leaving by 11 p.m.
POOL DESIGN CENTER PROPOSED FOR AREA NEAR NOCATEE WATER PARK
The papers note that most events would take place on weekends.
The applicants are seeking approval to accommodate up to 300 guests per event.
Parking would be provided along the eastern boundary of the lot, with traffic routed through two existing driveways.
County staff flagged potential compatibility issues with the surrounding neighborhood, noting the property is bordered on multiple sides by single-family homes.
Those concerns have sparked some pushback from nearby residents. Letters of opposition have been submitted, and a Change.org petition is circulating in the Oakbrook community, which sits near the proposed site.
The petition describes Oakbrook as “a peaceful haven for families, long-time residents, and retirees … a place where children play freely, neighbors build lasting relationships, and residents take comfort in the quiet, safety, and charm of their surroundings.”
It argues that introducing a commercial event venue into the residential area would disrupt that existing character.
“Several Oakbrook homes back up directly to this property,” the petition states. “The increased noise, lighting, and activity would severely impact those residents’ ability to enjoy their homes and outdoor spaces … resulting in a likely decrease in property values and diminished quality of life.”
Traffic and safety are also highlighted, with signers warning that neighborhood roads are not designed to accommodate large events.
The Citizen will update this story moving forward.
FOLLOW THE CITIZEN ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM RIGHT NOW FOR LOCAL FIRST COAST NEWS YOU WON”T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE
