# Portland’s Buffer Rule Under Fire | Portland Maine News

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/portland-maine-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7600695/portland-s-buffer-rule-under-fire-portland-maine-news
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/portland-maine-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7600695/portland-s-buffer-rule-under-fire-portland-maine-news.md
Podcast: [Portland Maine News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!](https://stenobird.com/podcast/portland-maine-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7600695)
Published: 2026-07-04T01:53:38+00:00
Episode link: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/b7629f46-e983-46a7-9c62-91ec5bbe4db2.mp3
Audio file: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/b7629f46-e983-46a7-9c62-91ec5bbe4db2.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/portland-maine-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7600695/episodes/portland-s-buffer-rule-under-fire-portland-maine-news
Duration seconds: 114

## Resource

An old Portland, Maine rule banning bars and clubs within 100 feet of each other is sparking a heated debate — business owners say it’s stifling downtown revival, while city officials must now decide whether to scrap it. At the heart of the push: Cocktail Mary, a queer bar that just moved to a bigger downtown spot only to be blocked by the outdated buffer zone. Owner Isaac MacDougal argues the rule ignores modern realities — fewer drinkers, more events, and existing noise controls — and is leaving spaces empty instead of vibrant. The city council has already approved a proposal to eliminate the buffer, sending it to the planning board for public input and a final decision by fall. MacDougal’s hoping for a quick vote — his fall events depend on it. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/713f7252ef729085

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