Planning a trip to Gulf Shores for spring break in 2017? Don’t get caught beer-handed on the beach this year!
This past winter, the Gulf Shores City Council approved a reimplementation of 2016’s alcohol ban to go into effect between March 4-April 16, 2017. So be advised if you are traveling down here during those dates, you cannot drink on the beach.
To remind our readers: Gulf Shores enacted a swift alcohol ban mid-March last year as a reaction to spring breakers partying on our beaches. The ban prohibited the possession or consumption of alcohol on a beach within city limits and lasted until April 17.
Nearly 500 arrests, mostly for underage drinking, occurred between March 5-March 29, including over 3,100 for police service during that time frame as well. Anyone in violation of the ban faced up to a $500 fine or six months in jail.
The results were positive for both families looking for a break from party goers and for the well-being of our beaches: less trash, less mess, and a more subdued crowd equal a safer and more enjoyable week.
This current iteration of the alcohol ban is only in effect for 2017, as the council needs to reevaluate the issue for 2018. One of the drawbacks of a potential reduction in spring breakers is the threat of a lack of revenue for our tourism industry during those months. Gulf Shores is a lot of things, and it goes without saying that an influx of partygoers during spring break has shaped our identity a bit. So for business owners, the issue can be prickly. But at the end of the day, most of the community is ultimately is in favor of the ban.
Like other local businesses, media outlets and the fine residents of Gulf Shores, we’re stewards of this beautiful place. So if you ever have any questions about real estate in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan, don’t hesitate to call The Powell Team — we’re happy to help.
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