Can you drink alcohol in your backyard? That is a question that many people are asking right now. There can be a lot of confusion on the topic because there is no one answer to this question. This post will go over some of the things you should know and consider before deciding if it’s legal for you to have a drink outside in your own yard.
Let’s say you’re drinking on your lawn and the cops show up. If they see that you are drunk, then there is a chance that they will arrest you for public intoxication. While it is not against the law you can be arrested if you are a danger to yourself and others.
Find Your Property Line
Before you start drinking outside, make sure that you know where your property line is. You can find out by asking a surveyor or looking up the town records for information about boundaries.
If you are drinking within your property you should not face any legal consequences.
Public Consumption of Alcohol Laws by State
The laws about public consumption are different in each state, so be sure to look up the rules for your location before deciding if drinking alcohol outside is allowed. The safest bet would be to drink on private property and avoid any risk that you could face a fine or time served at all.
Front Yard vs. Backyard
It is not illegal for you to drink in a public space like your front yard or on the porch of your house. You are likely to face more questions if you are drinking on your front porch. Than you would if you were drinking on your back porch.
To be on the safe side drink on private property, and be respectful of your neighbors.
Open Container Law
The open container law varies by state, so be sure to check the laws for your location.
When drinking alcohol on private property you do not have any legal restrictions against an open container as long as it’s in a place where no one else will come across it who is under 21 or driving their vehicle and isn’t carrying the alcohol for somebody else.
Check Your States Rules
It is important to be aware of the laws in your area so that you don’t break them. It’s always best to drink alcohol on private property. But there are a few exceptions where it can be done legally if approved beforehand by authorities and certain guidelines are followed.
The safest way would be to check your local state laws to make sure you stay on the right side.
Conclusion
While the law can be an ass the rule around drinking alcohol is all around keeping you and others safe. While it is not illegal you can still be arrested if you become a danger to yourself or others.
If you like to have a drink and want to stay on the right side of the law drink within your property line. But always remember that this does not give you free rein to behave unrulily and become a nuisance without consequences.