The City of Cold Lake says it will consider allowing the consumption of alcohol in picnic areas of City-owned and operated parks, following an amendment to the provincial Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act back in June. The Act, which previously stated that municipalities could designate areas of public parks for the consumption of alcohol with food, has been amended to remove the requirement that liquor only be permitted when consumed with food.
“The general rule is that liquor cannot and should not be consumed in most public places,” said Mayor Craig Copeland. “We’re not considering allowing parties in the parks or large public gatherings with liquor or anything of the sort. But for example, if responsible people wanted to enjoy a beer or a glass of wine in a designated area of a public park while having a picnic or watching the sunset, this amendment allows us to consider allowing that in City parks.”
The Act requires municipalities to designate specific areas of the park and time of day in which alcohol can be consumed. Signage would be required, explicitly stating when and where liquor consumption is permitted. All other laws regarding public intoxication, littering, cannabis use, etc. would continue to be enforced to ensure all residents and visitors are able to enjoy our parks.
City Council says they will discuss the changes to the Act and the possible implementation of designated liquor consumption zones at an upcoming meeting.
