Auburn, WA Public Conduct: Public Alcohol Use (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- RCW 66.44.100, adopted by ACC 9.46.900
- Violation type
- Class 3 civil infraction, ch. 7.80 RCW
- Exception
- Events permitted under RCW 66.24.800
- Related offense
- Public intoxication is a misdemeanor, ACC 9.46.010
- Enforcing agency
- Auburn Police Department
Summary
Auburn enforces Washington's statewide open-container law by reference: opening a liquor package or drinking alcohol in a public place is a class 3 civil infraction under RCW 66.44.100, adopted into Auburn Municipal Code Chapter 9.46. The same chapter separately makes public intoxication a misdemeanor. Auburn Police issue the ticket; narrow event exceptions exist.
Except as permitted by this title, including as allowed under RCW 66.24.800, no person shall open the package containing liquor or consume liquor in a public place. Every person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a class 3 civil infraction under chapter 7.80 RCW.
Full Breakdown
Auburn does not write its own open-container statute. 100, and that state provision is the operative rule inside city limits. 800 (special occasion and event licenses issued by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board). 80 RCW, the same infraction track used for minor traffic tickets, so there is no arrest or criminal record, only a fine processed through Auburn Municipal Court. 010, separately criminalizes public intoxication: a person 21 or older who appears in a public place intoxicated to a degree that endangers another person is guilty of a misdemeanor, distinct from simply carrying an open container.
'Public place' under this chapter covers any indoor or outdoor area the public may enter by right or invitation, whether paid or free, but excludes gatherings restricted to a private group. 100 automatically updates what applies on Auburn streets and in its parks without a separate city ordinance action.
Violations & Fines
Opening a liquor container or drinking in a public place is a class 3 civil infraction under RCW 66.44.100 and chapter 7.80 RCW, ticketed by Auburn Police and resolved in Auburn Municipal Court with a fine rather than jail. Separately, appearing intoxicated in public to a degree endangering someone else is a misdemeanor under ACC 9.46.010, carrying potential jail time on conviction, not merely a fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to drink alcohol in public in Auburn, WA?
What is the fine for an open container violation in Auburn?
Are there exceptions for festivals or permitted events?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Auburn
Compare Auburn to another location·View the Washington public conduct overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Public Alcohol Use in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle public alcohol use.