A judge ruled the recent nightlife ordinance, which required bars to pay a fee, install safety improvements, and add extra security personnel, was not enforceable.
The city adopted the ordinance in December 2023 after multiple complaints about crime and public safety in the Glenwood South area, but it was more restrictive than the state's ABC board regulations.
Any bars, taverns or nightclubs were required to get a nightlife permit from the city, which included extra rules and penalties.
In Friday's ruling, a Wake County judge ruled that the ordinance was "illegal, void, and unenforceable" under state law.
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Larry Miler, who lives in the neighborhood, has mixed feelings.
"It's neither good nor bad. It's just the law," he said.
Tony Basford, who owns Plus Dueling Piano Bar, feels the same way.
"Two things can be true at one time. And I do believe I commend the city on trying to do what's best and right for the citizens of the city," Basford said. "I agree with that. I also think that we should be cognizant and conscious of what's best for the business owners as well"
But when it comes to the noise ordinance the city is considering changes. Basford feels those changes should include voices from the businesses themselves.
"I don't think there should be any board making any decisions for the businesses down here until the businesses are included with that, like kind of an opportunity to come up with good solutions," Basford said. "That way you're working together beforehand."
A representative from the city told ABC11, "Raleigh has taken steps necessary to comply with the court's orders."
Residents can share their thoughts about noise concerns at this city website.