Saint Paul prohibits open containers of alcohol on public streets, sidewalks, and parks, with limited exceptions for licensed festivals, designated entertainment districts, and Xcel Energy Center private suites.
Saint Paul Legislative Code Chapter 313 (Liquor) and Chapter 270 prohibit consumption or possession of open alcoholic beverage containers on public property, including streets, sidewalks, parking lots, and city parks unless covered by a special-event liquor license. Minnesota state law (Minn. Stat. Section 169A.35) bans open containers in motor vehicles on public roads. Exceptions include licensed special events such as the Saint Paul Saints CHS Field, Cinco de Mayo Festival on West Side, Grand Old Day on Grand Avenue, and Winter Carnival. Private licensed premises (bars, restaurant patios with proper licensing) are unaffected. Enforcement focuses on disturbances rather than discrete possession.
Public open-container violations are petty misdemeanors with fines up to $300. Vehicle open-container offenses under state law carry up to $1,000 fines and potential license consequences.
See how Saint Paul's public alcohol use rules stack up against other locations.
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