The Downtown EZ is a new initiative enabled by recent California law (SB 969) that allows the City to create a designated area along Castro Street where adults (21+) can enjoy alcoholic beverages outdoors during specific, City-organized events. This 18-month pilot is intended to support a vibrant, active Downtown by allowing patrons to move between participating businesses and nearby public spaces. 

The Entertainment Zone boundaries include all streets, sidewalks, and public rights-of-way within the 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 blocks of Castro Street, including the Civic Center Plaza and half-block portions of the cross streets at Villa Street, West Dana Street, California Street, and Mercy Street.

The entire Entertainment Zone, or specific subareas within it, may be activated for specific events based on operational needs and the nature of the event. This area was selected based on several factors, including established cultural and commercial identities, concentration of ABC-licensed businesses, pedestrian-friendly environment, and history of hosting successful special events.

During the pilot phase, the EZ will only be activated for City-organized special events.

• Maximum Allowable Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
• Actual Hours: Most activations will occur during a shorter subset of these hours, depending on the specific event.

• Age: You must be 21+ and wear an official City-provided wristband. 
• Containers: Drinks must be in non-glass and non-metal "to-go" containers. 
• Movement: You can walk between blocks within the activated zone, but you cannot take your drink into a different business or outside the zone boundaries.

The EZ is designed to support our local economy by ensuring only established, licensed businesses within the zone can participate. Participation is entirely voluntary. 

Requirements for Participation

• Location: Must be a brick-and-mortar business within the EZ boundary. 
• Licensing: Must possess an active on-sale ABC license. 
• ABC Notification: Businesses must submit an annual notice of participation to the ABC website. 
• Operations: Follow all rules in the EZ Operations Manual, including age verification, using approved containers, and posting required signage. 

Information Sessions

Join us to learn about boundaries, security planning, and the ABC notification process.

Watch the recording of the May 12 Informational Session below:

Download a copy of the presentation slides here. 

Reporting

Participating businesses are responsible for their patrons. If a safety incident occurs, the business must submit a report to the Mountain View Police Department within 24 hours.