Note: information in this post is up to date as of September 2017. Laws tend to change, call if you have any questions.
What You Need to Know
If you are planning a visit to the Outer Banks get ready to get out and have some fun! You heard that you can enjoy your favorite alcoholic beverage right on the sandy beaches — but what are the Outer Banks alcohol laws in this place exactly? There really is nothing worse than trying to have some fun only to get in trouble with the law because you didn’t know the local laws. That is why it is so important to stay informed. You can still have lots fun and create great memories, but you need to know what is considered ok and what is considered not ok to do on the Outer Banks.
Our Local Outer Banks Alcohol Laws
First off, it is perfectly fine to enjoy your refreshing alcoholic beverage on the beach, but there are some regulations in place that you need to be aware of. It is perfectly legal to enjoy alcoholic beverages on the beaches on the Outer Banks, but it is certainly no free-for-all. For one, glass containers are a real big no-no on the beaches. That’s because they can break, get lost in the sand, and become a real danger to the people using the beach including yourself.
Now, aluminum and plastic containers are fine, but just don’t litter as that is illegal to do. Also, be sure to keep your conduct in check as well, because disorderly conduct can get you in trouble with local law enforcement. Keep in mind that you are sharing the beach with plenty of other people so make sure that you are tolerable to be around. That way you shouldn’t have any problems while you enjoy spending time on the beautiful beaches.
The Open-Container Laws You Need to Know About
In the State of North Carolina, having an open container of alcohol in a passenger vehicle is legal, but it depends on the type of alcohol and where it is located in the vehicle. It is illegal to have spirits, fortified wine, and mixed drinks. An open container of alcohol can’t be in the passenger area. Open containers of alcohol have to be secured behind the last row of seats or in the trunk of the vehicle.
In other instances, open containers of alcohol can be in a vehicle, but the driver cannot consume any alcohol and the beverage has to be a malt beverage such as beer or hard lemonade. Malt liquor, ale, table wine, or champagne are also acceptable.
Vehicles can have open containers of alcohol in the passenger area in certain instances but only if the alcohol is in the living area of a hoe or trailer. If the kind of vehicle is used for transportation purposes such as a bus, taxi, or limo.
Open containers of alcohol are never permitted in any commercial vehicle that does not accept payment for transportation such as a bus, etc. Just be careful to keep open containers of alcohol where they are legal to have them to avoid any trouble with the law and you won’t run into any issues.
The Outer Banks is a Great Place to Visit
Visiting the Outer Banks is a favorite of our guests for good reason: it’s an amazing beach located in the most unique place in North Carolina. The beaches are enjoyable, the sights are breathtaking, and you can enjoy your alcohol right on the beach. Just make sure that you don’t break any of the local laws or it will make your trip rather unpleasant. If you are aware of the local laws and adhere to them, then you will be able to steer clear of trouble.
Note: information in this post is up to date as of September 2017. Laws tend to change, call if you have any questions.