Greenburgh, NY Public Conduct: Public Alcohol Use (2026)

Section 305-3 prohibits public consumption of alcohol and possession of an open container under circumstances evincing intent to drink it anywhere in the Town without a permit. Section 305-2 defines "public place" broadly to include streets, sidewalks, parking areas, shopping areas, school grounds, playgrounds, public parks, Greenburgh Housing Authority property, and the passenger compartment of any parked vehicle on those grounds; private property restricted to private use is excluded. Consumption on Town parkland is banned altogether except at the Greenburgh Nature Center, where the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation may permit beer and wine only, capped at four events per calendar year.

Section 305-4 exempts medicinal alcohol, patrons of licensed taverns or restaurants whose license extends onto a street or shopping area, and consumption permitted under Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1227. Under § 305-5, anyone may apply in writing to the Town Clerk (or the Parks Commissioner for the Nature Center) for a permit to drink on public property, naming a responsible adult who agrees to keep alcohol away from minors. The Clerk or Commissioner may demand more information after consulting the Police Chief, may attach conditions to protect public health and safety, and must bar anyone under 21 unless accompanied by a parent or adult over 21.

A denied applicant, or a permit's opponents (a petition of at least 25 Town residents objecting that the activity is not in the public interest), may appeal to the Town Board. The chapter was adopted March 26, 1997 by Local Law No. 3-1997 and amended August 29, 2012.