Uptown Westerville DORA

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Days & Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday: 4-10 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

The City partners with Uptown Westerville, Inc. (UWI) to bring a DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) to the historic heart of the community.

Find event updates, a list of participating liquor establishments and more on the UWI website!

ABOUT THE UPTOWN DORA

Uptown DORA boundaries are clearly marked with signage. For the safety of all, please remain within the designated area while participating. The map below shows the general boundaries (subject to change).
DORA beverages are served in specially marked, single-use cups. Learn more from Uptown Westerville Inc.
Uptown merchants may choose to allow DORA beverages onto their premises. Look for the "DORA Welcome" stickers or consult with the merchants to be sure beverages are allowed.
Certain liquor establishments have opted in to serve DORA drinks. They may participate at their own discretion.

Scroll below for answers to frequently asked questions!

FAQs

Have other communities experienced an increase in crime associated with DORAs?

No. Both Uptown Westerville, Inc and City staff have reached out to other cities with DORAs and none reported an increase in crime related to the DORA. According to the safety plan, Westerville Police will continue to monitor the Uptown area during DORA hours.
Can an adult bring their own alcohol into the DORA?

No. Beverages purchased outside DORA boundaries or from a non-participating liquor establishment are not permitted.
Can an adult take a drink from one alcohol establishment into another?

No. A person cannot take a drink from one DORA establishment into another that serves alcohol. A person can take their DORA drink into a non-alcohol-serving establishment in the DORA if the business allows it. For example, drinks purchased from a DORA-participating establishment may be taken inside a store or boutique if that merchant permits it.
Can the proposed DORA be expanded or restricted in the future?

Yes. City Council can choose to change the regulations of the DORA, including hours of operation, the service plan, or the safety plan. An expansion of the map boundaries would require a new application to the State.
Do Uptown Merchants and restaurants have to participate in the DORA?

No. Participation in the DORA is optional. It is up to the merchants to decide if they will allow alcohol on their premises. Certain liquor establishments have opted in to serve DORA drinks. They may participate at their own discretion.
Is there a safety and sanitation plan?

Yes. State law requires a plan for both that must be included in the application. If the need arises to amend those plans to increase safety or to amend the sanitation plan, Westerville City Council may do so.
The map shows the DORA extending beyond where some of the signs have been placed. Can I take my drinks past the signs?

DORA boundaries are subject to change depending on a variety of factors. Please heed the signage placed in Uptown during the designated time.
What is a DORA?

A DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) is essentially a limited exception to open container laws. It allows licensed liquor establishments inside a designated area to sell alcohol in marked cups to adults (age 21 or older). Adults are then permitted to take those cups outside the establishment, within the designated zone, during a certain time period.

The state of Ohio approved DORAs in 2015. Several cities in Central Ohio have active districts including Dublin, Hilliard, Worthington, Powell and Delaware.
When was the DORA approved?

Westerville City Council approved the Uptown DORA on May 18.
Why would Westerville establish a DORA?
- DORAs have been shown to have positive impacts in other cities that include increased foot traffic, increased spending and increased outdoor gathering in a more COVID-safe environment.
- Uptown merchants that serve alcohol will be able to serve more customers within safety guidelines for social distancing. The experiences and responses from the Westerville community have been positive
- The experiences and responses from our fellow Ohio cities have been overwhelmingly positive.
Will COVID-19 precautions be in place?

The City continues to encourage residents to adhere to Department of Health regulations and best practices. Learn more from the Ohio Department of Health. Remember that some businesses may still request masking and social distancing.
Will the DORA be held during 4th Fridays?

DORA hours will proceed during Mount Carmel St. Ann's 4th Fridays. However, this is subject to change. Any updates will be communicated on the City's website and social media channels.
Will Westerville City Council review the DORA to see if changes need to be made?

Yes, staff has recommended an annual evaluation be conducted by Westerville City Council.

More »

Days & Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday: 4-10 p.m. Saturday, Sunday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

The City partners with Uptown Westerville, Inc. (UWI) to bring a DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) to the historic heart of the community.

Find event updates, a list of participating liquor establishments and more on the UWI website!

ABOUT THE UPTOWN DORA

FAQs

Monday-Friday: 4-10 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.