Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area
DORA District
For special events, a designated cup, a drink in hand, and 46 acres of historic downtown to explore.
What is DORA?
Established in 2020 for Special Events Only, the City of Bellefontaine's DORA is a designated public area where alcoholic beverages can be purchased in a designated cup from permitted establishments and carried within the district. Keep up with Downtown Bellefontaine on Facebook for upcoming DORA events.
Where Is It?
In accordance with O.R.C. 4301.82 [B] [1] [b], the boundaries of the City of Bellefontaine DORA cover 46.14 acres of historic downtown.
DORA Rules
Enjoying the DORA safely and appropriately is important. Here's how it works.
ID and Wristband
Present a valid state or federal ID to a participating DORA vendor, be 21 or older, and receive a wristband to wear while carrying your beverage.
From Participating Vendors Only
Purchase alcoholic beverages (beer and wine only) from a participating establishment or event vendor. No outside alcohol is permitted in the DORA.
Two-Drink Maximum
You may purchase up to two beverages at a time. Beverages must be in an approved DORA cup.
Approved Cup Required
Any alcoholic beverage consumed in public areas within the DORA must be in an approved single-use DORA cup.
No Vendor Hopping
You cannot carry a DORA beverage into another DORA-serving business. Non-alcohol-serving businesses may allow drinks at their own discretion.
Approved Hours Only
DORA beverages may only be consumed during approved hours of operation -- typically Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Public Health & Safety
The City of Bellefontaine uses the DORA District for special events only. All host entities are required to submit a public health and safety plan with their event application, reviewed by city staff before any permit is issued.
City staff ensures adequate sanitation, signage, and public safety -- including portable restrooms, ADA accessibility, pedestrian mobility, police and fire services, ingress and egress, crowd control, and DORA boundary management. Organizers may be required to pay for special-duty officers or overtime for public safety workers.
Beer & Wine Only
It is the City's intent that only beer and wine may be carried through the DORA in approved DORA cups.
Police Discretion
The Chief of Police may require additional officers at the host entity's expense, and may revise or end a DORA event at any time if it's in the public's best interest.
Frequently Asked
Can I walk anywhere with my DORA cup?
No. Patrons can only carry DORA beverages within the defined area and in an approved container. Retail and private establishments may set their own DORA policy.
What is a DORA cup?
A single-use plastic cup designated for all establishments serving alcohol within the DORA. The DORA rules are printed on each cup.
Can I take my DORA beverage into another establishment?
No. Once a DORA beverage leaves the business where it was purchased, it must be consumed (and the cup disposed of) before entering another establishment.
What hours is the DORA open?
Generally Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday noon to 9 p.m. Specific hours are set for each event. DORA beverages may not be consumed outside those hours.
How will I know where the DORA boundary is?
Signs are installed at key entry and exit points along the boundary. The DORA map above shows the full district. More info is available on the City website.
Can I pour my own alcohol into a DORA cup?
No. Beverages must be purchased from participating vendors. No cans, glass bottles, or outside beverages of any kind are allowed in public DORA areas, and beverages may not be taken outside the DORA.
Catch the Next DORA Event
DORA hours apply during special events only. Check the events calendar or follow the Partnership on Facebook for the next chance to grab a cup and stroll the district.