Port Townsend, WA Public Conduct: Public Alcohol Use (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing rule
- RCW 66.44.100 adopted by reference
- Local citation
- PTMC 9.02.330
- Max penalty
- $1,000 fine / 90 days jail
- Covered areas
- Streets, sidewalks, parks, public places
- Local carve-outs
- None specified in code
Summary
Port Townsend adopts RCW 66.44.100 by reference, making it a misdemeanor to open or consume liquor in any public place: streets, sidewalks, and parks included, citywide.
9.02.330 State law adopted – Title 66 RCW.
A. The following sections of the Revised Code of Washington, as now or hereafter amended, are hereby adopted by reference as if set forth in full:
1. RCW 66.44.100 Opening or consuming liquor in public place – Penalty.
2. RCW 66.44.200 Sales to persons apparently under the influence of liquor.
3. RCW 66.44.210 Obtaining liquor for ineligible person.
4. RCW 66.44.240 Drinking in public conveyance – Penalty against carrier – Exception.
5. RCW 66.44.250 Drinking in public conveyance – Penalty against individuals – Restricted application.
6. RCW 66.44.290 Minor purchasing or attempting to purchase liquor; RCW 66.44.291 – Penalties.
7. RCW 66.44.310 Minors frequenting taverns or cocktail lounges – Misrepresentations of age – Penalty – Classification of licenses.
8. RCW 66.44.320 Sale of liquor to minors.
9. RCW 66.44.325 Unlawful transfer to a minor of an identification of age.
10. RCW 66.44.328 Preparation or acquisition and supply to persons under age twenty-one of facsimile of official identification card – Penalty.
B. Unless otherwise specifically provided, a violation of each of the foregoing provisions shall be a misdemeanor. (Ord. 2441 § 34, 1995; Ord. 2164 § 1, 1989; Ord. 2014 § 25, 1985. Formerly 9.02.280.).
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 3364, passed May 18, 2026).
Full Breakdown
PTMC 9.02.330 adopts RCW 66.44.100 (opening or consuming liquor in a public place) by reference as city law. That means it's unlawful to open a package containing liquor, or to drink liquor, anywhere in Port Townsend that counts as a public place: streets, sidewalks, parks, parking lots, and similar areas open to the public. The code carves out no local exception, such as a downtown open-container zone or festival waiver; the state prohibition simply runs uninterrupted within city limits and is enforced by Port Townsend Police.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor under PTMC 9.02.330(B): a fine up to $1,000, jail up to 90 days, or both, enforced by Port Townsend Police.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol on a Port Townsend sidewalk or in a park?
Does Port Townsend have a downtown open-container exception for events?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Port Townsend
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