(A) Definition. For the purposes of this section, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
SOCIAL DISTRICT. An outdoor area in which a person may consume alcoholic beverages sold by an ABC permittee within the boundaries of the Social District.
(B) General. The city hereby creates and designates the following Social District:
(1) Downtown Lincolnton Social District which is designed as the area within the city as follows: (attached to Ord. O-01-24 as Exhibit A).
(C) Management. The Social District shall be created, designed and managed in accordance with the requirements contained in G.S. § 160A-205.4 and G.S. Chapter 18B.
(D) Permittee. Any business establishment located within or contiguous to a Social District which holds a valid ABC permit designed to engage as a Social District participant must apply for and obtain a Social District permit from the Planning Department of the city at no cost to the applicant. The establishment shall be responsible to operate its business in accordance with all city and state ordinances, laws, rules, regulations, and the operations plan governing Social District activities.
(E) Exception. The purpose of this section shall be to establish Social Districts within the city to promote the health, safety and welfare of persons consuming alcoholic beverages pursuant to the provisions of G.S. §§ 160A-205.4 et seq. which allows for the creation of one or more Social Districts by the city.
(F) Violation. Any person violating this section, and any person who aids, abets, encourages, assists, or contributes to such consumption, and any person who, having control of the premises where such consumption occurs in violation of this section, willfully permits or allows such consumption to occur, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
(O-01-24, passed 3-7-2024)