HOOVER – Hoover officials are seeking an opinion from Alabama’s attorney general about whether alcohol sales in the city could be allowed earlier on Sundays.

The city’s current ordinance regarding on-premise Sunday alcohol sales sets the start time at noon.

However, a law passed by the Alabama Legislature in 2017 appears to allow on-premise alcohol sales to begin at 10 a.m. on Sundays, pending approval.

In the request for an attorney general’s opinion, submitted by City Attorney Phillip D. Corley Jr., Hoover will inquire whether earlier Sunday sales can be permitted through an ordinance or if a referendum of residents is required—and if a referendum is needed, whether it could be a vote of Hoover residents only or a statewide referendum.

Corley told the Hoover City Council at its meeting on Monday, March 5, that the 2017 legislation contains “some ambiguous language.”

An answer is expected in two to three weeks, Corley said.

The Council also heard a first reading of an ordinance that would provide requirements for home occupations and day care centers within residential areas.

The operation of home occupations and various types of day care and child care centers are permitted in residential areas under the city’s zoning code, but technically, approval from the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council is required for their operation.

The proposed ordinance defines day care center or day care nursery, day care home, group care home, home occupation and night care facility home; addresses zoning; sets premises requirements; and establishes administration and review procedures.

A second reading of the ordinance and consideration for adoption is scheduled for the Council’s meeting on Monday, March 19.