DORA-Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area

What Is A DORA?

• A specifically designated area that allows patrons over the age of 21 to purchase alcoholic beverages from an establishment and carry them within a clearly defined area within the City.
• Established in April 2017 by Section 4301.82 of the O.R.C.; it creates an exemption from the Open Container Law; under the statute, a person who purchases beer or intoxicating liquor from the holder of a permit with a DORA designation is permitted to have that beverage in an open container at any outdoor location within the DORA boundary.
• Wyoming has a vibrant and expanding local restaurant, retail, and special event scene; this economic development tool will help promote Wyoming as a destination for dining, retail, and entertainment.
• The 2018 Master Plan identifies as a priority the creation of “additional opportunities for and promotion of night-out events for parents/adults (e.g. beer/wine and social events).”

Important Information To Remember

Except as provided in the DORA statute, all State of Ohio and the City of Wyoming laws regarding public intoxication, impaired driving, and open containers apply to areas both inside and outside of the DORA boundaries. Failure to comply with the rules as stated is a crime! Please drink responsibly!

Links

• Read the City Council adopted Ordinance (PDF).
• Read the City Council Application (PDF) for the Establishment of a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area.
• View Signage (PDF) that is posted at key egress areas of the DORA.
• View the DORA Sticker Image.
• View the DORA Cup (PDF).
• View the DORA Map Area (PDF).

Questions can be directed to, Communications & Events Coordinator Email Emily Dengler, or call at 513-679-4628 or you can Email City Manager Rusty Herzog, or by call at 513-842-1382.

Doug Nawrocki, Co-Owner of Tela Bar + Kitchen, identifies the importance of beverage sales in the restaurant industry.

“Tela’s average food sales is 59% and beverage 40%. We absolutely could not survive without our beverage sales. Our focus on craft wine, beer, and cocktails goes hand in hand with our chef-driven fare. The beverage menu is essential to our success. We need local customers to visit as often as they can and we look to draw new customers from surrounding communities. Having an outdoor refreshment venue will help us drive in more traffic.”