The Gulf Shores City Council passed an ordinance banning the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages on the city’s gulf beaches in its corporate limits at a special meeting on Friday. The ban on alcohol is in effect until April 17.
The ban prohibits possession or consumption of any alcoholic beverage on any portion of the beach, south of the protected sand dunes within the Gulf Shores city limits from the west end of Gulf State Park Beach to the end of West Beach.
“The city has a responsibility to protect the health, safety and welfare of our residents and visitors and an obligation to protect the reputation of the city as a family-friendly destination,” Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft said. “In order to keep spring break in Gulf Shores a safe environment, it is time we take action.”
During the spring break season, college-aged visitors are drawn in large numbers to beach destinations, and the city finds that the prolonged consumption of alcohol this year is directly associated with undesirable behavior and an increased risk to public safety.
“Gulf Shores has long been known as a favorite beach destination for families from across the Southeast and Midwest,” Craft said. “In recent years, we have seen an increase in students coming here for spring break, and we again want to reiterate that we are a family-friendly destination that welcomes visitors of all ages to enjoy our beaches and destination responsibly. We as city leaders have an obligation to do whatever is necessary to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for our citizens and our visitors and to protect our beaches.”
Anyone caught disobeying the ordinance could face a fine of up to $500 and up to six months in jail.
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