Lakewood City Council Considers Changes to Law Regarding Drinking in Public

During the past few years, Lakewood has had a growing number of restaurants approved for sidewalk dining. There have also been more requests for permits to serve alcohol at fundraising events in public spaces.

However, it’s technically still illegal to serve (and consume) alcohol on city property — including sidewalks and streets.

On Monday, heard a proposal that would bring the code up to date with current legislation that allows the sale of alcohol in public places.

Under the current law, businesses and organizations must obtain special permits to serve alcohol. But under the city’s criminal code, drinking in public is forbidden.

The proposed ordinance would officially allow drinking with a special event permit or a conditional use permit for outdoor dining.

“This isn’t a license to be drinking in public property with no good reason,” said Lakewood Law Director Kevin Butler. “We have to fix discrepancies like this when we find them.”

Several restaurants in Lakewood — including , , and — already allow outdoor dining. Events, such as ’s Starry Night fundraiser, would also be covered under the new legislation.

Special event permits — issued by the — require those being issued the permit to pay the insurance costs.

Butler said that public safety is the most important factor in deciding who is issued a permit and who isn’t.

“We wouldn’t want alcohol in public places where there is still traffic,” he said. “There’s no danger of people co-mingling with traffic. As far as safety goes, we’re in good shape.”

The ordinance was referred to city council’s public safety committee for further discussion.