Can you drink alcohol in Bellingham parks? Here are what city, Whatcom County laws say
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As you could probably tell by the Woods Coffee in the middle of Boulevard Park, drinking is encouraged at Bellingham parks, as long as it’s coffee that’s in your cup.
But as the weather warms up, you might want to head out for a picnic with a bottle of your favorite wine. So are you allowed to swap out your mug for a wine glass? Here’s what city, county and state laws say.
Drinking in Bellingham city parks
In general, it’s illegal to drink in Bellingham parks. The city’s municipal code states that “the opening or consuming of any alcoholic beverage on park property is prohibited.”
They’ll only make an exception if you have a license from the state and the “explicit written permission of the director of parks and recreation.”
There’s a 2014 city memo titled “Alcohol use at Park Facilities”, which aims to clarify those exceptions. According to the document, the exemptions primarily leave room for people to host an event at a city park where alcohol is present. In order to do that, you have to apply for permission, provide any relevant details about the event, submit a damage deposit and provide proof of liquor liability insurance. Even if you get approved, only beer and wine are allowed.
Drinking in Whatcom County parks
If you’re willing to travel just outside of the city limits, Whatcom County parks are slightly more lenient. While they don’t allow alcohol in open spaces, they allow drinking in reservable areas, including picnic shelters and day lodges. It’s going to cost you though – if you plan to drink, you have to pay an additional $60 fee with your reservation.
Drinking in WA state parks
If you’re so determined to drink in a public park that you’re still reading this, your best bet would be a Washington state park. While drinking is generally off limits in these locations, too, state parks do allow alcohol at campsites, picnic tables, benches or reservable day-use areas.
Whatcom County has three state parks: Larrabee, Birch Bay and Peace Arch.
