Neighbors are divided as a Longs-area restaurant seeks an outdoor dining and drinking exemption

HORRY COUNTY, SC (WMBF) – The Horry County Board of Appeals intends to consider a special exception for Big E’s Country Buffet and Seafood restaurant amid backlash from residents of a nearby development over noise concerns.

Big E’s, located off Highway 9 in Longsea, is asking for an on-premises alcohol and outdoor dining exception because it sits just 185 feet from the nearby River Haven development — much closer than the required 500 feet. The agenda of the meeting of the zonal appeal board on November 4.

WMBF News spoke with several River Haven residents who say their biggest concern is Big E playing music late at night, which they say started back in the spring.

“The house was vibrating. The windows were shaking and there was such a loud bang,” said Liz Green, who lives at the front of the River Haven complex.

At least 50 people have signed request calling for a “review of existing noise regulations in relation to Big E’s activities”.

Brandon Keenan lives across the highway from Big E’s and started the petition. Keenan said he and many people in River Haven have young children, and the music makes it difficult for them to sleep properly.

Big E’s did not have an outdoor patio permit when the restaurant was inspected on April 18 by Compliance, the documents show.

They also say any outdoor entertainment or sound amplification at Big E’s must meet the county’s Noise Ordinance requirements.

One of the owners of Big E’s, Breanna Chesnut, confirmed that the restaurant is currently closed.

She responded to residents’ concerns in a statement to WMBF News: “Members of the Longs community reached out to host outdoor food, music and happy hour somewhere close to home. We want to grow with our community and offer positive change and growth.”

Michael Sams has lived in Longsea for 15 years and said he appreciates the changes Big E’s has made in recent months.

“I’ve been here over 15 years and we definitely need more facilities like what she’s doing there,” Sams said.

The meeting starts at 17:30 on Monday.

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