The South Australian Government has extended the approved Alcohol Dry Areas for the Clare township since 2012.

This Fact Sheet provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Alcohol Dry Areas.

What is a Dry Area?

A ‘Dry Area’ is an area where the consumption of alcohol or possession of open containers of alcohol is prohibited. This applies even if you are just moving through a Dry Area. Possession of alcohol in an open container does not take account of whether the alcohol is being consumed or not. However,
a person can possess alcohol (e.g. a carton of beer, a bottle of wine or alcohol in an esky) in a Dry Area provided the containers are unopened.

Legislation also enables patrons who consumed a bottled wine on a licensed premises with a meal, to carry the unconsumed portion of that wine in its original container through a dry area when they leave the premises. In these circumstances the possessor of the unsealed container will need to prove that
it was purchased at a licensed premises and consumed with a meal.

Where are the Dry Areas?

Please see attached document above for a map of the Dry Zone Areas for Clare.

Dry Areas have been designated in the township of Clare to encompass all public areas adjacent to or within the residential and district town centre zones and includes a 24 hour prohibition on alcohol consumption in and around the Clare Skate Park.

Council has erected signs at the main entry points to the Dry Area. It is not a defence to a charge if you claim you did not see a sign or even if there is no sign present where you breach the rules of the Dry Area.

Why have Dry Areas been designated?

The implementation of the Dry Areas has reduced the incidence of public drinking and anti-social and petty criminal behaviour by public drinkers late at night and early in the morning, which subsequently provides increased safety and amenity for the general public.

When do the Dry Areas apply?

Dry Areas operate from 10.00pm on each day to 8.00am on the following day. People can consume alcohol or possess open containers of alcohol in these areas outside of these times.

Where can information about Dry Areas be obtained?

Information about Dry Areas can be obtained from the Office of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner :

ALCOHOL DRY AREAS IN CLARE

Clare & Gilbert Valleys  & Gilbert Dry Areas raise awareness amongst all community members that drinking to excess in public is not a socially acceptable activity.

Local residents and visitors alike need to be aware that the Clare & Gilbert Valleys  is a proactive, socially responsible and family friendly community.

What penalties apply for breaching a Dry Area?

A person who consumes alcohol or has possession of opened containers of alcohol in a Dry Area between 10.00pm and 8.00am is guilty of an offence. The offence carries a maximum penalty of $1,250. Offenders can also be issued with an expiation notice of $160, plus a Victims of Crime Levy.

Who monitors the Dry Areas?

SA Police will monitor the Dry Areas. They should be contacted on all matters relating to the Dry Areas by phoning 08 88422711 or 131444.

If I live or work within a designated Dry Area, can I consume alcohol or possess an open container of alcohol on the private property?

Yes. Rules for Dry Areas only apply to public places.

Can permission be gained to hold an event involving alcohol in a Dry Area?

It is recommended that applicants contact Consumer and Business Services (formerly the Office for Liquor and Gambling) on 131882 to determine if a Limited Liquor Licence is required for the sale or consumption of alcohol at the event.

Can alcohol be consumed in a privately-owned vehicle in a Dry Area?

A person is not permitted to consume alcohol or possess an opened container of alcohol in a privately-owned vehicle within a Dry Zone Area.