Headed to Tahoe for July 4? Douglas advises of fireworks law, alcohol, marijuana and curfew measures
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is preparing for the upcoming 4th of July celebration and would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Independence Day. Due to the volume of celebrants within the Stateline casino core at Lake Tahoe, Nevada Beach and Zephyr Cove areas during this event and throughout the weekend, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is reminding our residents and visitors to be safe and mindful of the laws surrounding their festivities.
The goal of the Sheriff’s Office is to protect life and property while at the same time allow celebrants to enthusiastically celebrate the July 4th holiday. There are, however, behaviors that will not be tolerated by law enforcement.
Fireworks
Many firework displays have been cancelled. We would like to remind the public that possession, sale, trade, exchange or discharge of fireworks are prohibited. It is also unlawful to possess or discharge fireworks within the County without having obtained the proper permits as set forth in Section 8.16.040. (Ord. 1356, 2012)
Public Safety Reminders
Incidents which will most likely result in an arrest or citation include acts that place celebrants or law enforcement officers in jeopardy; including fighting, theft, narcotic violations, severe public drunkenness, minors consuming or possessing alcohol, possession of or discharge of fireworks, or any other act that disrupts the ability to have a peaceful and safe environment for all.
Each year during these events, a large percentage of contacts and arrests are made of persons under the age of 21. The curfew in Douglas County is midnight on July 4th and throughout the summer. Persons under the age of 18 are subject to citation for being in violation of this ordinance.
Persons under the age of 21 who are in possession of alcohol or under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be subject to arrest. Residents have to be 21 years or older to purchase and consume marijuana. It is still illegal to smoke marijuana in a public place and against the law to drive a vehicle under the influence.
Law Enforcement Presence
Persons planning to be at Nevada Beach are reminded per Douglas County Code 9.28.010, “open container of alcoholic beverage is unlawful” at that location. Any such containers, including their contents, will be confiscated for destruction by law enforcement with potential for citation or arrest.
Throughout the Stateline casino core area, Zephyr Cove and Nevada Beach, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and Nevada Highway Patrol will have increased patrol personnel on duty as well as in both the Carson Valley to handle calls for service and traffic enforcement, particularly targeting speeding and intoxicated drivers.
You Drink You Drive, You Lose
All persons who consume alcohol during the 4th of July are encouraged to catch a ride with a sober driver or utilize a local driving service. This Fourth of July, commit to only driving 100-percent sober. Don’t lose your independence on Independence Day, and don’t be a deadly risk to yourself and other innocent people.
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