By 1808Delaware
The success of Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas, or “DORAs,” across central Ohio has promoted two more versions in Delaware County cities joining the already existing one in Delaware.
Enacted under a section of the Ohio Revised Code, DORAs are a specified area of land that a local legislative authority has designated as exempt from certain open container provisions. Patrons within a DORA that purchase an alcoholic beverage for on premises consumption from a DORA designated liquor permit holder can leave the permit premises with an opened alcoholic beverage container and continue consuming it within the designated area
The City of Delaware has the oldest such program in the county.
Beginning in October of 2017 as a boost to downtown restaurants and liquid refreshment venues, the Delaware version was boosted earlier this month with an expansion as to hours and area. More information on the expanded Downtown Delaware DORA is available here and here.
In Powell, City Council has created a downtown DORA that operates from 11 AM to 10 PM on Thursdays through Sundays.
A map of DORA boundaries and of parking spots is available here.
Lastly, the City of Westerville created a DORA through legislative action on May 18. Although Westerville’s downtown is not located in Delaware County, we are including it nonetheless based on the City’s strong presence in our county.
Details on the Westerville DORA can be found here.
