Cities and towns could permit outdoor alcohol zones and later service hours through the end of July
(BOSTON—6/8/2026) With a landmark summer on the horizon, the Massachusetts Legislature has approved a bill to let communities create outdoor drinking districts and keep bars and restaurants open an hour later than usual.
“This pilot program gives our cities and towns more flexibility to bolster economic development in downtowns and public spaces across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Cindy F. Friedman (D-Arlington), Chair of the Senate Committee on Steering and Policy. “I look forward to reviewing the impacts analyzed by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission of this temporary law to help inform future discussions and decisions on our municipal alcohol laws.”
Both measures are opt-in, requiring individual cities and towns to authorize them locally before taking effect.
Under the bill, municipalities could designate outdoor areas, including streets and public parks, where residents and visitors may consume alcohol, provided their drinks are purchased from a licensed establishment within the zone.
The bill would also give municipalities the option to extend permissible service hours by one hour at bars, restaurants, breweries, distilleries, and any other establishment licensed for on-premises consumption—up to a maximum of 3 a.m.
Both provisions would expire before August begins.
Having been passed by both chambers of the legislature, the legislation now goes to Governor Healey for her signature.
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