OVIEDO, Fla. – A popular Oviedo barbecue restaurant says city regulations are threatening its growth and future.
Briskets BBQ is a small but bustling spot known for its smoky brisket. News 6 anchor Matt Austin showcased the business on the I-4 Food Tour.
Lately, the owner has been clashing with the City of Oviedo over expansion efforts.
Owner Bob Agastini says he added picnic tables to accommodate the crowds, but the city slapped him with an impact fee of up to $18,000—later reduced to $8,000—arguing the tables expanded the footprint of the business.
“The problem isn’t just the tables,” Agastini told Matt Austin. The business owner says the city has caused the business to move outdoor storage and get rid of fencing. Officials have also scrutinized the location of his smoker.
[WATCH: I-4 Food Tour heads to Briskets BBQ Shack]
“They just throw out their little subjective decrees like it’s nothing,” said Agastini.
City officials disagree. Teresa Correa, Oviedo’s Development Services director, says the city is simply ensuring that growth follows local codes.
“We are trying to help him grow but still comply with the rules,” she said.
Bird’s eye view images show part of Briskets’ operation—including seating and supply storage—extending outside of the property leased by the business. The city says that’s why additional permits and fees were required.
Briskets is working to remove the picnic tables and is addressing other compliance issues. But Agastini says the back-and-forth has left him concerned.
“They could hassle the heck out of me until I’m not even out here,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Briskets is still moving forward. The restaurant plans to expand into Chuluota in the near future.
A magistrate is expected to review the case Aug. 28.