FAQs

Alcohol Free Zones (AFZ) are implemented in an effort to improve public safety by minimising antisocial behaviour caused by alcohol consumption in public areas. Public areas such as public roads, footpaths or public car parks may be included. 

These zones are established by Council with input from NSW Police and the local community.

An alcohol free zone is an area where it is illegal to consume alcohol 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Any person seen drinking in an alcohol free zone may have the alcohol in their possession immediately seized and tipped out or otherwise disposed of by Police.

Once established, each alcohol free zone is in place for a maximum of four years.

Alcohol Free Zones have been established in specific areas of 11 villages and towns in Wollondilly Local Government Area.

• Appin
• Bargo
• Douglas Park
• Oakdale
• Picton
• Tahmoor
• The Oaks
• Thirlmere
• Warragamba
• Wilton Bingara Gorge
• Wilton

You can view maps of the alcohol free zones in the Wollondilly on Council’s website and in the documents section.

Yes. You can carry alcohol through a zone if the bottle is unopened. Make sure your liquor is stored in a bag.

Only if the event is licensed. Any event held in a public place must have a liquor license if people want to consume alcohol. If the event is not licensed, the normal rules apply for alcohol free zones.

No. You cannot consume alcohol in a vehicle parked in an alcohol free zone.

Call the police if you see people drinking in a public place and they are participating in antisocial behaviour or look like they might do so.

Call Council on 02 4677 1100.

Alcohol Free Zones cover public roads, footpaths, car parks and laneways

By contrast, Alcohol Prohibited Areas cover parks, beaches and reserves, and can be time-restricted e.g. prohibited between 8:00pm and 6:00am.

If a police officer reasonably suspects that you are drinking, have been drinking, or are about to drink alcohol, police can seize and dispose of that liquor. It will not be given back to you. If you do not comply with these enforcements, you can be charged with obstruction under Section 660 of the Local Government Act which carries a maximum penalty of $2,200.