Questions and Answers
How would a Municipal Alcohol Policy (MAP) help?
A MAP would:
- provide clear guidelines for alcohol use in municipal facilities
- reduce the risk of problems and, therefore, lawsuits
- allow adults to have fun, raise money and still consume alcohol if they want to drink
- inform rental/user groups on how to run safe, problem-free events
- enhance your community's reputation as a great place to live and visit
What does a Municipal Alcohol Policy contain?
A MAP outlines:
- a list of facilities eligible for alcohol use safe transportation strategies event controls (e.g., rules for ticket sales and the number of workers required)
- server training requirements
- regulations for under age participants
- provision of low alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks food availability
- insurance required by rental groups (e.g., $ 1 million recommended)
- signage
- penalties for non-compliance with your policy
How can I develop a Municipal Alcohol Policy?
- Contact CAMH (or your Public Health Unit) for information and advice
- Obtain Council's support
- Invite community members to serve on an Alcohol Policy Development Team
- Schedule team meeting at intervals of about three-weeks; meet several times
- Draft policy and present to municipal officials for review
- Receive Council's approval to implement a MAP
Who is on the Municipal Alcohol Policy development team?
- volunteers (e.g., recreation committee members)
- rental/user group representatives (e.g., service clubs, sports teams)
- interested community members
- municipal staff
- local police, as consultants
What are the teams's responsibilities?
- Attend all meetings
- Work through terms of reference
- Vote on issues
- Make policy recommendations to municipal officials
- Keep Council and the community informed of progress
What are the responsibilities of CAMH, Public Health Unit and other community agency staff?
Staff of CAMH, Public Health and other community agencies provide alcohol information and policy advice.
How will community residents react to the development of a Municipal Alcohol Policy?
An open policy development process helps the community to understand the need for the policy and encourages compliance.
Once we have a Municipal Alcohol Policy, how do we implement it?
- Conduct information sessions for staff and rental/user groups
- Organize a publicity campaign
- Arrange for staff training and incorporate duties into job descriptions
- Sponsor regular server training sessions
- Post signs as described in the policy
Are Municipal Alcohol Policies effective?
A 1994 CAMH survey of municipalities with MAPs found reductions in:
- underage drinking (61%)
- fights and scuffles (57%)
- vandalism (55%)
- police interventions and complaints to police (36%)
- legal action (18%)
- intoxicated patrons (11%)
- AGCO penalties (9%)
How many communities in Ontario have a Municipal Alcohol Policy?
More than 140 communities--or about one-third of Ontario communities-- have either developed a MAP or are in the process of doing so.
Where can I get information about a Municipal Alcohol Policy for my community?
Your local CAMH Community Programs office has trained staff able to help with information and advice.
Call Centre for Addiction and Mental Health for information about your nearest Community Programs office: 1-800-463-6273 or (416) 595-6111.