Purpose of the Bill

• This bill allows the city of Waconia, Minnesota, to issue a social district license to establishments with existing onsale liquor licenses. This special license would enable patrons to consume alcoholic beverages within a designated social district area.

Main Provisions

• Issuance of Social District License: The city of Waconia can grant a social district license to any legal facility selling alcohol on the premises located next to the designated social district.
• Designation and Control: Before issuing the license, the city must define the premises of the social district and ensure that the area does not include properties whose owners object to its inclusion.
• Boundaries and Signage: The social district’s boundaries must be clearly indicated with signs, and details regarding the hours and days of alcohol consumption must be displayed.
• Management and Maintenance: The city is responsible for the upkeep of the social district to ensure public health and safety. They must establish and publicize management and maintenance plans online.

Significant Changes

• Container Requirements: Alcoholic beverages served for consumption in the social district must meet specific packaging criteria, such as using non-glass containers, displaying the serving premise’s identification, and labeling with a responsible drinking reminder.
• Control over Alcohol Possession: Beverages purchased must be consumed within the district, and individuals may not bring drinks from outside into the social district, nor can they remove beverages from the designated area unless returning to the point of purchase.

Additional Requirements

• Exclusive Purchases: Only alcoholic beverages bought from an onsale licensee within or next to the social district can be consumed there.
• Operational Reporting: Two years after the first license issuance, Waconia must report back to the legislative committees on the process, community responses, and any issues or benefits experienced with the social district.

Relevant Terms

• Social district license
• Alcohol consumption
• Onsale licensee
• Public safety
• Non-glass container