Coventry, Rhode Island, had no zoning areas where churches were allowed. So, two years ago when the city wanted to argue about The Horn of the Cauldron, Church of the Earth’s tax exempt status on their land, the Wiccan church applied for a permit. They met all the requirements put forth by the building inspector (lighting, fire alarms, etc.), and still couldn’t get a permit, so they called the ACLU.
The church has been holding rituals and other events for quite a few years, and yet the city claimed that a church in their area would impact parking, traffic, and public safety. The city’s planning department recommended approval, but the zoning board wouldn’t budge. The lawyers from the ACLU pointed out that this violated RLUIPA and first amendment rights.
In the end, the zoning board relented (likely based on the understanding that the ACLU would take them to court), and the permit was approved.
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