What is the difference between a bar, a restaurant, a cafe, or a gastropub? That question is something Tuscaloosa city officials are considering.

The Tuscaloosa News is reporting that council members are mulling over potential definitions for these establishments, along with coffeehouses, in an effort to better regulate them. The city could also establish a 150-foot buffer from Queen City Avenue and a 200-foot buffer from historic homes or detached dwellings in designated historic areas.

Why is this an issue? Zoning. Businesses operating in the city's historic downtown sector may disturb downtown residents with late music and noise.

Currently the only definitions the city's code has deal with brewpubs and breweries. There are no other legal definitions for such businesses.

Developers say this could make it harder to attract new businesses to the area. Residents say they like the business, but want the noise down after a certain hour.

City officials have tabled the regulations for another two weeks.