Milwaukee, WI Public Conduct: Public Alcohol Use (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- Public parking structures & surface lots
- Penalty
- $50–$250 forfeiture
- Unpaid-fine jail cap
- 10 days
- Key exception
- American Family Field game/concert lots
- Code section
- § 106-2.1
Summary
Milwaukee bans drinking or carrying open alcohol containers in any public parking structure or surface lot citywide, with narrow exceptions for licensed taverns, permitted events, and stadium lots during games.
It shall be unlawful for any person to consume any alcohol beverage or possess on his or her person any bottle or receptacle containing alcohol beverages if the bottle or receptacle has been opened, the seal has been broken or the contents of the bottle or receptacle have been partially removed while upon any public parking structure or public parking surface lot within the limits of the city.
Full Breakdown
Milwaukee Code of Ordinances § 106-2.1 makes it unlawful to consume alcohol or carry an opened, unsealed, or partially emptied alcohol container while on any public parking structure or public parking surface lot (five or more spaces) within city limits. Violators face a forfeiture of $50 to $250 plus prosecution costs, with up to 10 days in jail for nonpayment. The ordinance exempts American Family Field lots during games and concerts, common-council-approved special-event extensions of Class B tavern licenses, and licensed nonprofit or club events. It does not create a separate citywide ban on open containers on ordinary streets or sidewalks.
Violations & Fines
Forfeiture of $50 to $250 plus court costs; nonpayment can bring up to 10 days in the county jail or house of correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol in a Milwaukee parking garage or lot?
What's the penalty for violating Milwaukee's parking-lot open container rule?
Is drinking at American Family Field parking lots exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Milwaukee
Compare Milwaukee to another location·View the Wisconsin 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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.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 Milwaukee County handle public alcohol use.