Alcohol Policies

Sonoma County Veterans Memorial Auditoriums

If you plan to serve alcohol at your event, the following rules apply:

Public events are open to the general public, may charge admission, or sell food or drinks.

You must comply with all California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and local law enforcement regulations.
Alcohol may only be served with proper licensing.
Copies of all alcohol-related permits must be submitted to Public Infrastructure at least 30 days before the event.
Public events must also follow all private event rules listed below.

Private events are invitation-only and do not charge for entry or alcohol.

Events with 100+ guests must hire a licensed caterer with an Off-Premise Liquor License.
Alcohol must be served only from a common bar—no bottles, cans, or pitchers on tables.
Required documents from the caterer must be submitted before the event:
- Current catering license
- ABC alcohol service authorization
- Proof of insurance
- Number of bartenders at event
- Bar service hours (maximum 5 hours)

These apply to all events, including private events with fewer than 100 guests:

Alcohol service must end one hour before the event ends, unless the event is 3 hours or shorter.
Alcohol must stay within designated areas outlined in your rental agreement.
Alcohol may not be served to or consumed by minors (under 21).
- Violations will result in immediate event closure.
- Those who serve alcohol to minors may face criminal or civil penalties.
The County may shut down events due to underage drinking, intoxication, safety concerns, or damage to facilities.