Seeking Public Input: Proposed Revisions to the Denver Parks and Recreation Alcohol Policy

Denver Parks & Recreation's (DPR) alcohol policy was established in September 2007, and amended in May 2011, February 2012 and May 2012, resulting in the current policy which is overly-complicated and inconsistent. In an effort to simplify how rules and regulations are enforced at DPR facilities across the city, a revision to the DPR Alcohol Policy is being proposed and your feedback is wanted. 

Website access to survey: http://www.denvergov.org/parkrules
Direct link to survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DPRPolicy

The intent of these proposed revisions is to:

• Simplify the policy
• Provide more clarity to park users and permit holders
• Consistently implement policy requirements in facilities throughout the city
• Accommodate upcoming changes to state liquor laws.
  
  

PROPOSED revision summary:

1. Permitted events (public, private, races/walks, and athletic tournaments) would be treated the same when it comes to selling and serving alcohol. Events would be allowed to sell or serve all types of alcohol, ending restrictions in some parks where beer, wine and champagne only are allowed (with a liquor license from Excise and License).
2. All DPR parks would be able to host permitted events where alcohol is served or sold (with a liquor license from Excise and License). Other standard restrictions would remain in place, such as permit requirements, public event rules, rest periods, noise regulations, and capacity limits.
3. All permitted events held at DPR buildings (event facilities, golf clubhouses, and recreation centers) would be treated the same when it comes to serving or selling alcohol. Events would be allowed to sell or serve all types of alcohol, ending restrictions in some buildings where beer, wine and champagne only are allowed, with the exception that such permitted events in recreation centers must occur when the building is closed to the public.
4. Events such as demonstrations and assemblies (protests, marches) will be prohibited from acquiring a permit to serve or sell alcohol.
5. References to 3.2% beer will be removed from DPR rules and regulations. Public consumption in Denver parks and open areas will follow Colorado State law. In 2019, state law will no longer require a designation for 3.2% beer, likely ending the distinction from full-strength beer.

If you have any questions as you complete this survey, please email parksandrecreation@denvergov.org. 

The survey should take approximately 10 minutes and is anonymous. Your input will shape how the alcohol policy is adjusted, so please help by sharing with your neighbors. The survey will close April 20, 2018.

To review proposed changes in more detail, visit denvergov.org/ParkRules