What You Need to Know About Youth and Alcohol Open House Party Law
Working with the Community to Stop Under-Aged Drinking
The Sanibel Police Department’s primary mission is to protect our residents, those who come to work on Sanibel, and our many visitors from being harmed. This includes being harmed by an underage person illegally consuming alcohol or adults operating a vehicle after over consumption of alcohol. We are asking local businesses who sell or serve alcoholic beverages to work with the Sanibel Police Department to ensure that Sanibel remains a safe place to visit and live.
Did You Know
Allowing Alcohol Possession or Consumption by Persons Under 21 at Private Premises FS.562.11(1a)
Florida has specific laws in place prohibiting an adult from allowing possession or consumption of alcohol by individuals under the age of 21 on a premise under his/her control.
A person who violates this law can be arrested and may receive a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 60 days imprisonment. (2nd degree misdemeanor)
In addition, any person who willfully and unlawfully sells or furnishes alcoholic beverages to a person who is not of legal drinking age (21) will be responsible for injuries or damages caused by the intoxication of the minor.
Possession of Alcohol by Persons Under 21 FS. 562.111
In the State of Florida, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to possess alcohol. A violation of this law is a 2nd degree misdemeanor.
This crime may be punishable by up to 60 days imprisonment and/or up to $500 fine for a first of offense. (2nd degree misdemeanor)
Or up to one year imprisonment and/or up to $1,000 fine for a subsequent violation (1st degree misdemeanor).
For offenders under the age of 18, the DMV will suspend/revoke the offender’s Driver’s License for 6 to 12 months for the first violation and two years for a subsequent violation.
Purchase and Attempt to Purchase Alcohol by Persons Under 21 FS.562.11(1a)
Florida has specific laws in place prohibiting an individual under the age of 21 from purchasing alcohol. In Florida, if an individual under the age of 21 purchases or attempts to purchase alcohol, they can be arrested for a 2nd degree misdemeanor.
This crime may be punishable by up to 60 days imprisonment and/or up to $500 fine for a first offense (2nd degree misdemeanor).
Or up to one year imprisonment and/or up to $1,000 fine for subsequent violations (1st degree misdemeanor).
For offenders under the age of 18, the DMV will suspend/revoke the offender’s driver’s license for 6 to 12 months for the first violation and two years for a subsequent violation.
For offenders under the age of 17, the violation is handled by juvenile court. There is no indication in the law that a diversion program is available for offenders.
For More Information Contact the Sanibel Police Department at 239-472-3111.