LAKE COUNTY – The Board of Supervisors gave final approval on Tuesday to an ordinance crafted to discourage underage drinking and hold responsible the adults who allow it to take place on private property.

Following its second reading, the ordinance was approved 4-0 shortly before the meeting wrapped up for the day at 12:30 p.m. Supervisor Rob Brown was not on the dais during the item and so did not vote.

The board had approved the ordinance's first reading at its June 10 meeting.

The new measure focuses on social host liability, holding responsible adults who host parties at private residences or other private premises and fail to stop minors possessing or drinking alcohol.

The county's ordinance imposes both criminal and civil liability on social hosts in such situations.

In the case of the civil liability component, it allows law enforcement to seek reimbursement for enforcement activities that result from minors drinking at parties. The funds will then be used for alcohol and controlled substance abuse and prevention education programs.

However, the ordinance's language specifically states that religious activities or family gatherings are protected circumstances and not subject to the ordinance.

With Tuesday's approval of the ordinance, the county joins the cities of Clearlake and Lakeport, which adopted their own versions of underage drinking ordinances in July and December of 2007, respectively.

E-mail Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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