DORA

The following FAQs are guidelines to the DORA rules and should be used as a guideline only. Some information is drawn from the Ohio Department of Commerce.

What is a DORA?

A Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) is a specially designated area that allows patrons of an establishment serving alcohol to take an open container out of the business and walk around the public streets. This is limited to patrons over the age of 21. Drinks must be in special DORA cups, available at all participating alcohol establishments inside the DORA. Section 4301.82 of the ORC creates an exemption from the Open Container Law within the DORA.

When and where is the DORA?

The DORA is defined by a series of signs reading ‘No Alcoholic Beverages Beyond This Point.’ Downtown Greenville’s DORA stretches from Garst Museum to the north, to the old Marsh parking lot to the south, and from Walnut and Sycamore to the east and west. DORA beverages are not permitted on private property unless consent is given — a green ‘DORA Beverages Permitted’ window cling means yes; a red cling, or no cling, means patrons should assume no. The DORA is in effect Monday through Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. Special hours may be designated in advance by the Mayor or Safety/Service Director for holidays or special events, with the consent of City Council.

May a person bring their own alcohol into a DORA?

No. Ohio open container law prohibits having an opened container of alcohol on a permit premises that was not purchased from that permit holder, even within a DORA.

Can I request a temporary alcohol permit (F2) within a DORA?

Yes. However, any F2 permit within any portion of a DORA must use the DORA boundaries as its boundary.

Is a DORA safe?

The City of Greenville Police Department provides routine patrols and enforces responsible behavior. For planned events that may draw larger crowds, the Police Chief may assign additional officers to the DORA. Safety and sanitation personnel are available during all operational hours, with minimum staffing mandated during special events and festivals.

How is trash from single-use cups handled?

The City of Greenville Streets Department, assisted by private contractors, ensures trash receptacles in the DORA are emptied regularly. Special events are addressed with additional temporary receptacles and portable toilets, and the condition of the DORA is continually monitored.

Do I have to use special DORA cups?

Yes. Any open alcohol leaving an establishment must be in a designated DORA cup, and cups must be empty to enter an establishment. Cups are single-use and available at any participating establishment.

Can I take my DORA beverage into another establishment?

No. A beverage purchased at one participating DORA establishment cannot be taken into another participating DORA establishment.