The regulation of alcohol sales and service is an important element in the safety of our community. Fort Collins Police Services works to support this by providing free training to licensed liquor retailers and conducting compliance checks.

Compliance checks are conducted by the FCPS Alcohol Enforcement Officer and underage FCPS Explorers. Using their valid driver's licenses, Explorers attempt to purchase alcohol from licensed retailers. Businesses who sell or serve them are notified of the violation. 

Selling alcohol to people under the age of 21 is against the law. Drivers licenses are vertically oriented for everyone under 21, which is a clear indication for servers checking to see if a patron can legally purchase alcohol. 

The penalties for serving an underage person include up to a $5,000 fine or 5-day liquor license suspension for the business. The server is also subject to a citation. Businesses are responsible for providing alcohol service training to staff within 60 days of a liquor hearing. 

The majority of alcohol retailers pass compliance checks, and those who fail are given the opportunity to improve practices and prevent future violations. FCPS supports our local businesses and works to create a collaborative environment that promotes safe, responsible behaviors. The FCPS Alcohol Enforcement Officer provides alcohol service training at no cost to all licensed liquor retailers and staff. To learn more or request this training, please call (970) 416-2634.