Tipton announces new Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area

The City of Tipton announces the creation of a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), allowing residents and visitors to enjoy alcoholic beverages outdoors and in specific establishments throughout Tipton.

The establishment of the DORA, authorized by Indiana Code 7.1-3-31 and approved by the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (ATC), was previously approved by the Tipton City Common Council in September to enhance the downtown experience and support local businesses.

“Establishing Tipton’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area presents an exciting opportunity to enhance the downtown experience,” Mayor Kegan Schmicker said. “By encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore, we aim to increase the time and money spent in our local shops and restaurants, fostering a more vibrant community for both residents and guests. This initiative aligns with our commitment to supporting local businesses and creating a welcoming, dynamic atmosphere in downtown Tipton.”

A DORA allows patrons 21-years and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from approved businesses within the DORA and carry them outside to be consumed within the DORA’s boundaries. Beverages may be taken around the designated DORA, either while relaxing outdoors, enjoying one of the many downtown events or while shopping at retailers permitting DORA beverages in their businesses.

“When we opened The Mad Tap, we wanted to create a family-friendly social hub, a place for the community to gather,” said Mindy Mason with The Mad Tap. “I believe DORA will provide an additional attraction to patrons, a destination for people to get out in Tipton and roam around the shops, dining spots and other downtown events, all while enjoying a beer or a cocktail if they choose.”

The new DORA encompasses a defined area in downtown Tipton, as outlined in the city ordinance and accompanying map. Participating establishments within the district will be designated as permittees, allowing patrons to purchase alcoholic beverages and enjoy them while exploring the area. Visitors will be able to enjoy drinks in specially marked DORA cups within the district’s boundaries, which excludes all residential properties.

Key details

• Operating hours: The DORA will be active seven days a week, from noon to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday. Special event organizers can request amended DORA hours for specific occasions.

• Effective date: The DORA will come into effect on Dec. 7 at 10 a.m.

• Participating businesses: Participating establishments include: Urban Homestead, Wheelies, The Shack, TI-ON Lounge, The Elks Lodge #1012, The Mad Tap, and The Greenhouse. Additional businesses within the district can apply to become designated permittees through the City of Tipton.

• Additional permittees: Additional businesses within the district can apply to become designated permittees through the City of Tipton by submitting a designated permittee application to the Mayor’s Office. It then must be approved by the City Common Council and the Indiana ATC.

• Vendor participation: Temporary vendors can participate during special events by applying for a Special Event Permit. Approved vendors will be allowed to sell alcoholic beverages in designated vendor areas within the DORA.

• Beverage limits: Patrons may carry up to two open containers of alcoholic beverages at a time. The containers must be in designated DORA cups, with restrictions on size—beer and flavored malt beverages (16 ounces), wine/cider/hard seltzer (12 ounces), and mixed drinks (10 ounces, with no more than 2 ounces of liquor).

• Safety and enforcement: The City of Tipton Police Department will monitor the DORA to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Businesses within the area maintain the right to restrict or prohibit alcohol on their premises.

• No glass containers: For safety, glass containers will only be allowed in designated outdoor dining areas and cannot be carried into the DORA’s open spaces.

• Branding and signage: The City of Tipton has established a unique brand for the DORA, with consistent signage and specially marked DORA cups. Visitors will see clear boundary markers and signage to guide them through the area. Signage attached at the end of this release.

• Community-driven initiative: The DORA was developed with input from local businesses and residents, and it is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to revitalize the downtown area and promote a vibrant social scene.

“We’re thrilled to see DORA coming to Tipton, especially as it coincides with the opening of Wheelies,” said Cliff Ragan with Wheelies. “This is an exciting opportunity to bring our community together, creating a lively atmosphere that will make it easier for visitors to explore all that Tipton has to offer – from unique shops to cozy bars and restaurants. DORA will help put Tipton on the map as a destination spot, and we’re excited to welcome everyone to experience both Wheelies and our wonderful downtown!”