Visit our Engage Bellbrook page as a resource for progress on the DORA application. There, you will find documents and information as well as an oportunity to provide input through a survey, discussion board, and posting questions about the DORA.
Click HERE to Visit the Downtown Bellbrook DORA Engagement Page
Welcome to the Downtown Bellbrook DORA
Sip, Stroll, and Support Local — Safely and Responsibly
A Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) allows patrons 21 and older to purchase an alcoholic beverage from a licensed downtown establishment and walk within a specific outdoor boundary with their drink.
This guide answers your questions about how the DORA strengthens our historic Old Village District while keeping Bellbrook safe, clean, and family-friendly.
General FAQ
What exactly are the boundaries of the Bellbrook DORA?
The DORA spans approximately 48 acres along Franklin Street in the heart of downtown.
- North Boundary: Bellbrook Plaza / Bellbrock Park / North side of E. Franklin St.
- South Boundary: South side of Franklin Street / Old Sugarcreek Elementary Site.
- East & West Boundaries: The edges of the historic Old Village District (from Little Sugarcreek to the City Limits).
Which local businesses are participating?
You can grab official DORA beverages from downtown favorites including The Blueberry Cafe, McIntosh’s Pub, and Bellbrook Brewing Company, as well as any future qualifying establishments within the zone.
The Pros: What Bellbrook Gains
How does this benefit our local economy?
By allowing visitors to stroll between shops with a beverage, the DORA naturally increases "dwell time"—the amount of time people spend downtown.
- Foot Traffic: Neighboring communities with DORAs report significant increases in weekend foot traffic.
- Retail Synergy: When people stay downtown longer to enjoy a drink, they are far more likely to stop into non-alcoholic retail shops, boutiques, and service businesses.
- Small Business Support: It levels the playing field for our local dining and brewing spots, giving them a flexible edge to attract patrons.
Will this improve community events?
Absolutely. It transforms downtown into a more cohesive, vibrant social hub. Instead of being confined to a crowded indoor space or a blocked-off beer garden, residents can enjoy a drink while walking through local heritage festivals, community markets, or just running into neighbors on a Friday evening.
The Counters: Addressing Common Concerns
While exciting, it is completely natural to have questions about how a DORA impacts community safety. Here is how Bellbrook’s structured plan actively counters potential downsides:
|
The Concern
|
The Concrete Reality / Counter-Measure
|
|
"Will it lead to public intoxication or rowdiness?"
|
No. Communities across Ohio consistently report that DORAs attract casual, relaxed strollers (families, couples, and friends)—not a rowdy party crowd. Bellbrook Police maintain standard strict enforcement against public intoxication and disruptive behavior.
|
|
"I don't want people bringing drinks into my retail shop."
|
You have total control. Every downtown business will feature a clear window cling. Retailers can choose a bright green "DORA Drinks Welcome" sign or a red "No DORA Drinks" sign. Your preference is strictly respected.
|
|
"Won't this create a massive litter problem?"
|
Strict containment rules prevent this. Beverages must be served in specific, non-glass DORA cups. The city's sanitation plan includes strategic trash receptacle placement, and patrons cannot take a cup outside the 48-acre boundary lines.
|
|
"Can people just bring their own alcohol from home?"
|
Absolutely not. Carrying outside alcohol (cans, bottles, or flasks) remains entirely illegal under Ohio open-container laws. Only drinks purchased in official, designated cups from permitted downtown vendors are allowed.
|
|
“Does the DORA block off streets or areas within the DORA district?
|
Absolutely not. The DORA is an identified area within the City that allows restricted single beverages. It is NOT a continuous event or festival, nor does it restrict or block any streets, sidewalks, or other areas. People who normally come visit the places that serve alcohol beverages are already here; the DORA simply allows people to walk and visit other businesses and locations in Downtown.
|
The Quick "Sip & Stroll" Rules
- DO stay within the signed DORA boundaries.
- DO look for the window clings on retail shops to see if they allow drinks inside.
- DO NOT take a DORA cup purchased at one bar/restaurant into another liquor-permitted establishment. You must finish it first!
- DO NOT bring outside alcohol into the district.
Click HERE to Visit the Downtown Bellbrook DORA Engagement Page