Can you drink outside in NYC?
Asked by: Ola Kerluke DVM | Last update: November 30, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (66 votes)
(THE ACTUAL PROHIBITED ACT:) No person shall drink or consume an alcoholic beverage, or possess, with intent to drink or consume, an open container containing an alcoholic beverage in any public place except at a block party, feast or similar function for which a permit has been obtained.
Is it legal to drink on the beach in New York?
-No alcoholic beverages on the beach or boardwalk. -No bonfires or barbecues on the beach or on the boardwalk. -Swimming is prohibited without a lifeguard on duty.
What is considered an open container in NY?
“Open Container” laws are designed to promote public safety by prohibiting the possession of alcoholic beverages or other intoxicants in an open container in public areas and in motor vehicles. Per these laws, open containers refer to any of the following: Alcohol or wine bottles with removed seals.
What are the new alcohol laws in NY?
Governor Hochul signed two of those recommendations into law in October of 2023, while three more are included in this year's Enacted Budget: Alcohol To-Go – A 5-year extension will allow for the current “drinks to go” provision to continue through 2030, with those 5 years commencing from 2025.
Is it illegal to carry alcohol outside?
The majority of U.S. states and localities prohibit possessing or consuming an open container of alcohol in public places, such as on the street, while 24 states do not have statutes regarding the public consumption of alcohol.
Where to EAT and DRINK Outdoors in New York | NYC Summer Guide
Can you drink at public parks?
California. Public consumption is only allowed in a few locales including select beaches and parks. There are a few alcohol-friendly areas in Golden Gate Park where you can imbibe wine or beer while enjoying the view, and Sonoma Plaza Park is the perfect place to set up a picnic with some local wine.
Can I drink in public in NY?
For non-driving open container offenses, there are exceptions as well. New York laws prohibit people from consuming alcoholic beverages in public places unless they are located at a block party or other designated event that has obtained a permit.
How much is a public drinking ticket in NYC?
Administrative Code - “Consumption of Alcohol on Streets Prohibited” ( also known as “Open Container Violation” or “Consumption of Alcohol in Public”) are eligible to plead guilty and pay a $25 fine by mail.
Is New York strict on alcohol?
Drinking Alcohol in Public in New York: Regulations
New York State has strict laws governing public alcohol consumption. Generally, drinking in public places, such as streets or parks, is prohibited. Violating these laws can result in fines or even arrest.
Can you drink in a parked car in NYC?
New York's “Open Container” law regulates the consumption of alcoholic beverages in motor vehicles. Per this law, you may not have an open container of alcohol in your vehicle even when the vehicle in question is parked.
Can you drink in the NYC subway?
Eating and drinking is allowed. A NYTimes article from 2017[1] says the main reason to allow eating & drinking on the subway is for children who ride the metro to school. Many eat their breakfast on the train.
Can I drink in public if it's in a paper bag?
Contrary to popular belief, the brown paper bag in which alcohol is packaged does not protect you from criminal charges if you drink alcohol in public. You can even be arrested for just opening the bottle in public.
Can you brown bag in NYC?
In New York City, the fine for violating the Open Container Law is $25.00, however, the law also states that you could be in jail for up to 5 days. Oftentimes, you will see someone put their alcoholic beverage in a brown bag, believing this will shield them from the Open Container Law. This is incorrect.
Can you smoke on the beach in NYC?
Public Spaces Covered by the Smoking Ban
Smoking and vaping is prohibited in the following areas: All New York City parks except median strips. Beaches and boardwalks. Public golf courses.
What alcohol do you drink at the beach?
Another perfect beachy drink is a good old margarita. Margaritas often consist of tequila, triple sec, and lime juice. It's tangy, topped with tequila, and the top choice of drink if you are looking to party in the sun.
Will open container ticket show up background check?
In the state of California and open container is classified as a civil infraction, punishable by a maximum fine of up to $250. That means no, it should not show up on a criminal background check.
What is the alcohol policy in NYC?
Sale of Alcoholic Beverages
Off-premises (liquor store or retailer) liquor and wine sales are prohibited between midnight and 8 AM, and Sundays between 10 PM and 10 AM. On-premises (bar or lounge) sales are prohibited on weekdays between 4 AM and 8 AM, and Sundays between 4 AM and 10 AM.
What is the alcohol limit in NYC?
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) - .
08 Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) or higher or other evidence of intoxication. For drivers of commercial motor vehicles: . 04 BAC or other evidence of intoxication.
How can I legally drink in public?
Can I drink or be drunk in public? You can't drink alcohol in public spaces or outside of a licensed venue under California law, and you can only be drunk in public as long as you aren't bothering other people.
Can I drink in Central Park?
Alcohol is not permitted in Central Park.
What are the blue laws in NY?
The NYS Alcoholic Beverage Control Law prohibits the issuance of a full liquor license for establishments on the same street or avenue and within two hundred feet of a building occupied exclusively as a school, church, synagogue or other place of worship.
Can passengers drink alcohol in NY?
It is a traffic infraction for a driver or passenger in a motor vehicle on a public highway, street or road to drink a beverage containing alcohol or to possess an open container containing an alcoholic beverage.
How much is an open container ticket in New York?
Drivers convicted of violating New York's open container law face a maximum fine of $150 for a first offense. For repeat offenders, the cost is higher. Receiving a second open container citation within 18 months of the first is accompanied by a fine of up to $300.
Is it illegal to drink in the backseat of a car?
According to California Vehicle Code 23222, California prohibits the possession of an open alcoholic container in vehicles regardless whether you are a driver or a passenger.