The Floyd County Commission has approved a six-month freeze on issuing permits for new gas stations and convenience stores, following a similar move by the Rome City Commission earlier in the week.
The pause aims to address the rapid growth of these businesses, especially those with coin-operated amusement machines (COAMs), which city officials say have saturated the area.
A recent study revealed that current zoning laws in Rome and Floyd County allow for more convenience store locations than similar communities. Officials plan to review and possibly revise those regulations, as well as business licensing procedures.
The moratorium, which took effect immediately and runs through January 9, 2026, also applies to any stores that haven’t yet secured a building permit. The goal is to give the Planning Commission time to rework zoning codes and better define what qualifies as a gas station or convenience store.
“There are about 30 potential new stores waiting in the wings,” said Mayor Craig McDaniel. “This is a necessary pause to ensure responsible growth.”
