A newly proposed permit would allow patrons to take alcoholic drinks outside of bars and into the street during events in some areas of Fresno’s downtown Brewery District.
The Fresno City Council will consider establishing three “entertainment zones” along Fulton Street at Thursdays meeting. The area is home to many popular bars, such as The Modernist and Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company, and major city events, like FresYes Fest and Art Hop.
The proposed ordinance was brought forward by Fresno’s planning and development department and aims to enhance the success of city events, support local businesses, increase economic activity and create a community-friendly, lively atmosphere, according to city documents.
To conduct an “entertainment zone event,” organizers would need to obtain a special permit. After someone gets a drink from an established bar during one of these events, they would be able to enjoy it outside within the zone’s boundary.
Cities and counties are allowed to establish these zones under recently introduced Senate Bill 969 that was signed into law on January 1, 2025. The purpose is to help revitalize downtowns, boost local economies and encourage more events. Some cities have used the bill to host wine walks and block parties.
Where would the three entertainment zones be?
The proposed entertainment zones each include all public streets, sidewalks and public right-of-way within the three boundaries:
- Zone A would encompass Fulton Street, between the southern edge of Inyo Street and the northern edge of Mono Street.
- Zone B would encompass Fulton Street between the southern edge of Tulare Street and the northern edge of Mono Street. It includes Kern Street and east of Homerun Alley to Fulton Street.
- Zone C would encompass the eastern edge of Fulton Street, between the southern edge of Inyo Street, northern edge of Mono Street and the eastern edge of Broadway Street.
At the events, alcoholic beverages consumed by patrons in the zones must be purchased only from bars and breweries within the area and may not be taken out of the zone. Plus, the outdoor consumption of alcohol may only occur between 10 a.m. and 11:59 p.m.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.fresnobee.com ’
