Messiah Baptist Church v. County of Jefferson

Messiah Baptist Church (MBC) (plaintiff) bought 80 acres of land zoned for ranching and agricultural uses, where churches were not originally allowed. The county later amended its ordinance to allow churches in that zone by special-use permit. MBC applied for a permit to build a large facility with worship space, offices, classrooms, athletic facilities, parking, and an amphitheater; the planning commission denied the permit citing access problems, erosion hazards, and inadequate fire protection. MBC sued the county (defendant), arguing the zoning restrictions violated the First Amendment and the Due Process Clause. The district court granted summary judgment for the county.