§ 8.700. Consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages in opened containers.

(a)

It shall be unlawful for any person to consume any alcoholic beverages or have in his possession any alcoholic beverages in an open container on the posted premises of a commercial shopping center, or on posted parking lots open to the public.

(b)

This section shall not be construed to apply to the enclosed premises of a licensee of a validly issued license by the Howard County Board of License Commissioners, nor to the area covered by a temporary license issued by the Board of License Commissioners.

(c)

Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be subject to a fine not to exceed $100.00 or imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or both, in the discretion of the court. Alternatively or in addition to and concurrent with all other remedies, the Police Department may enforce the provisions of this subtitle pursuant to the provisions of title 24, "Civil Penalties," of the Howard County Code. A violation of this subtitle shall be a Class D offense.

(d)

For the purpose of this section, the term posted is defined as the display of a sign, not less than 18 inches by 24 inches in size, on the affected premises, informing the public that consumption or possession in an opened container of alcoholic beverages thereon is prohibited.

(C.B. 35, 1975; C.B. 32, 1985)