11.015 Downtown Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA).

(1) Purpose and Intent. The purpose of this section is to create a designated outdoor refreshment area (DORA) to enhance the downtown experience for visitors and tourists by allowing the responsible consumption of alcohol beverages (beverages containing alcohol) outdoors and within specified boundaries. This initiative aims to promote economic activity and support local businesses in the City’s downtown district.

(2) Definitions.

Designated outdoor refreshment area (DORA) means a specific area within the City where alcoholic beverages purchased from participating establishments may be carried and consumed outdoors in compliance with this section.

Participating establishments means licensed businesses within the DORA authorized to sell alcoholic beverages in approved containers for outdoor consumption.

(3) Designation of the DORA.

(a) The DORA boundaries shall encompass the area shown on Exhibit A attached to the ordinance codified in this section.

(b) The DORA will operate year-round from January 1st through December 31st.

(c) The DORA will operate during the following hours: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. CT.

(4) Permitted Activities Within the DORA.

(a) Alcohol beverages purchased from participating establishments may be carried and consumed within the DORA, subject to restrictions (see subsection (5) of this section).

(b) All alcohol beverages must be served in City-approved, unbreakable, and transparent or semi-transparent containers marked with the logo or name of the participating establishment.

(c) Patrons must remain within the defined boundaries of the DORA while consuming alcohol beverages purchased at participating establishments.

(5) Restrictions Within the DORA.

(a) Consumption of alcohol beverages is prohibited on private property without the owner’s explicit consent.

(b) Consumption of alcohol beverages in glass containers served from participating establishments is strictly prohibited. All consumption of alcoholic beverages outside in the DORA that were purchased from participating establishments must be consumed from plastic containers.

(c) Patrons may not bring alcohol beverages into establishments that serve alcoholic beverages or food unless the alcohol beverage was purchased at that establishment.

(d) All State and local laws regarding the legal drinking age, public intoxication, and disorderly conduct remain in effect.

(6) Licensing and Compliance. Participating establishments must apply for a DORA permit and adhere to the following requirements:

(a) Use approved containers for alcohol beverages.

(b) Display clear signage indicating participation in the DORA program.

(c) Educate staff about DORA rules and regulations.

(7) City Responsibilities.

(a) The City Clerk shall maintain a registry of participating establishments and issue permits upon verification of an appropriate and valid alcohol license.

(b) Waste disposal and recycling receptacles throughout the DORA.

(c) The City retains the right to suspend or terminate the DORA temporarily or permanently in response to public safety concerns or noncompliance.

(8) Violations.

(a) Violation by Individuals. A violation by an individual shall be punishable by a forfeiture of not more than $100.00 for each offense.

(b) Violation by Participating and Licensed Business. A violation by a business that possesses a valid DORA permit shall be punishable by a forfeiture of not less than $100.00 and not more than $500.00 for each offense.

(c) Violation by Non-Licensed Business. A violation by a business that does not possess a valid DORA permit shall be punishable by a forfeiture of not less than $500.00 and not more than $1,000 for each offense.

(d) Any business failing to comply with DORA requirements may have its permit revoked without notice by the Municipal Clerk.

(9) Annual Review. The DORA program shall be reviewed annually by the Common Council to assess its effectiveness and determine any necessary amendments or continuance.

[Ord. 25-892 § 1; Ord. 25-365 § 1, 2025]