
What is a DORA?
In Indiana, a municipality may have up to 7 Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA). DORA allows people who are 21 years and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from approved establishments within the DORA and take them outside to consume within the area's boundaries. These beverages can be enjoyed while relaxing outdoors, attending events in the Depot District, or while shopping at retailers that permit DORA beverages in their stores. The City of Richmond has approved one DORA, The Depot District DORA.
When is the DORA in Effect?
The Depot District DORA can be utilized Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Where is the DORA?
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Why a DORA?
Many cities in Indiana have embraced the opportunity provided by the state legislation to implement a DORA. This initiative aims to spark economic development and elevate the overall Depot District experience, creating a thriving and dynamic urban setting
Benefits of a DORA?
- Boost Tourism in the Depot District
- New Revenue Source for Restaurants and Bars
- Increased Revenue and Spending in Retailers within the DORA Boundaries
- Easier Process for Organizations Hosting Depot District Events in the DORA
Signage to Look For:
Depot District DORA Signage

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to post a sign?
Retailer permittees participating in the DORA must post signs indicating whether customers can enter with an open container of alcohol. Non-participating businesses can choose to display a sign indicating whether DORA is allowed.
(Pictures of Door Clings to be added)
What cups will we use?
Designated Depot District Permittees and Vendors must use the designated cup with the Depot District DORA logo printed on it. The designated cup style and logo will be made available to all Depot District Designated Permittees and Vendors through the Depot District Association. Contact: Info@RichmondDepotDistrict.org

Can people enter or leave my business with alcoholic beverages?
A Designated Permittee or a Vendor may allow a person to exit their premises into the DORA with not more than two (2) open alcoholic beverages.
What are the fill limits of the beverages?
- Beer or flavored malt beverages: up to sixteen (16) ounces.
- Wine, cider, or a premixed cocktail up to twelve (12) ounces.
- Liquor or a liquor-based cocktail: up to ten (10) ounces, including up to two (2) ounces of liquor.
Who are the Designated Permittees in the Depot District DORA?
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- The Cordial Cork
- Roscoe's Coffee Bar & Tap Room
- Firehouse BBQ and Blues
- Little Sheba's
Where are the Vendor Areas within the Depot District DORA?
- Neff Street
- North Side Corner of North E and North 8th Street
- Better Homes and Garden Parking Lot off of North E Street
- North 9th Street between North E Street and Elm Place
- Roscoe's Gravel Parking Lot off of North D Street
Are businesses located outside of the DORA allowed to cater inside the DORA and provide alcohol as a regular Designated Permittee? Is that based on an event, or open-ended?
Yes. A business outside of a DORA may apply to be a vendor and be located within a “vendor location” area during a scheduled event.
If I choose to opt-out, can I later opt-in? (and vice versa)
Yes, you may opt-in or opt out of participation.
How would a new Designated Permittee apply?
- You must fill out and file State Form 57288.
- Both the City and the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (ATC) must approve a Designated Permittee.
DORA Guidelines:
• Patrons 21+ are welcome to enjoy the DORA district.
• The Depot District DORA can be utilized Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
• DORA beverages must be served in the DORA approved cup. Approved Depot District vendors may purchase cups from the Depot District Association. Contact Info@RichmondDepotDistrict.org to purchase Depot District DORA approved cups.
• Patrons may not carry DORA beverages into another establishment that serves alcoholic beverages.
• Any DORA beverages purchased within the DORA must remain within the DORA boundary.
• A person may not consume an alcoholic beverage in public areas of the DORA that was purchased outside of the DORA.
• Alcoholic glass containers are not permitted in the DORA boundary.
• Possession of an open container of an alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle may constitute a class C infraction under IC §§ 9-30-15
• Patrons may not carry DORA beverages into a merchant's business unless the owner approves. Please look for approved signage indication beverages are welcome.
For additional DORA information, please review ordinances 40-2023 and 41-2023
For more information, please contact Lindsay Darnell, Community Development Coordinator.
ldarnell@richmondindiana.gov or call 765-983-7215
Please Drink Responsibly!