Bend, OR Public Conduct: Public Alcohol Use (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Bend Code § 5.15.005
- Max civil penalty
- $750.00 (Class A)
- Exception
- OLCC-licensed premises or City permit
- Park rule
- BMPRD alcohol consumption permit required
- Enforcement
- Bend Police, Municipal Court
Summary
In the City of Bend, drinking or holding an open container of alcohol in any public place, or any premises open to the public, is illegal unless the site is licensed by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission or holds a City permit. Bend Metro Park land needs a separate alcohol consumption permit. Violators face a Class A civil infraction.
A. No person shall drink or be in possession of an open container of alcoholic beverages in a public place or premises open to the public unless the place or premises has been licensed by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission to sell intoxicating liquor for consumption or on premises for which a permit has been issued by the City.
B. Except when authorized by the Bend Metropolitan Park and Recreation District, no person shall drink or be in possession of an open container of alcoholic beverages in a park under the control of Bend Metropolitan Park and Recreation District without having first obtained an alcohol consumption permit referenced in BC Chapter 5.55.
Full Breakdown
005 bars drinking or possessing an open container of alcoholic beverages in a public place or premises open to the public unless that place has an OLCC license to sell liquor for on-premises consumption, or the City itself has issued a permit for the event or location. 55. 40 civil infraction procedure; a respondent can pay the stated penalty, submit a written explanation, or demand a hearing before the Bend Municipal Court Judge within the time printed on the citation. 00. 010 separately bans possessing or consuming any alcoholic beverage, open or closed container, while on or in the Deschutes River within City limits (bridge crossings excepted), which is only a Class A civil infraction as well, showing the City treats the river corridor as its own stricter zone.
Violations & Fines
Drinking or holding an open container in an unlicensed public place, or in a BMPRD park without the required alcohol consumption permit, is a Class A civil infraction carrying a civil penalty of up to $750.00 under Bend Code 1.40.080. Citations are filed with the Bend Municipal Court; a respondent may pay, submit a written answer, or contest the citation at a hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol in a Bend city park?
What is the fine for an open container violation in Bend?
Does the open container ban apply on the Deschutes River?
Sources & Official References
- [1]Bend Code
Other rules in Bend
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