Coastal NJ city bans 'mere existence' of alcohol on beach and boardwalk

As Summer fast approaches, one New Jersey beach town is dreading some of the typical revelry that comes with the influx of seasonal tourists, banning the possession of alcohol on its beach and boardwalk entirely.

The city of Wildwood already bans the open display and drinking of alcohol on those premises, Fox News noted, but the city on Thursday unanimously approved a stricter measure to prohibit its possession entirely in those spaces. The Wildwood boardwalk does include bars and restaurants, all of which may continue operating as usual.

The new measure imposes a maximum $2,000 fine and up to 90 days in jail for violators. 

"Alcohol of any kind has always been prohibited on the beach and boardwalk. In fact, there is already a sign at every street entrance to the beach. This new ordinance not only prohibits the drinking and/or open display of alcohol, but also says the mere existence of any kind of alcohol is prohibited," Mayor Pete Byron said, per Fox.

Commissioner of Public Safety Steve Mikulski indicated that the ban was "a matter of public safety... Drinking, especially in the sun on vacation, often leads to excess and unruly behavior, not to mention increased health risks."

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.