A law that would greatly increase a fine levied for holding an unlicensed for-profit party where the general public is invited was introduced at Tuesday morning’s County Council session.
“The goal is “to curb the growing issue of dangerous and disruptive for-profit house parties in neighborhoods,” according to an April 30th letter from the two sponsors, Councilmembers Dawn Luedtke and Andrew Friedson.
Currently, the fine is $25. The proposed bill would increase the fine to a maximum of $500.
A June 10 public hearing is scheduled.
These unlicensed events already are illegal under county zoning laws but “have proven difficult for County Government to effectively address,” the sponsors noted.
The parties often include loud, intoxicated partygoers who park cars throughout the neighborhood and set off fireworks. The for-profit parties advertise and invite the general public.
Friedson said that the current penalty “didn’t come close to deterring” these parties. “Now we will be providing the tools needed for our efforts to work,” he said, adding, “This is about safety and wellbeing.”
He also said, “These unlawful parties have turned residential homes into promoted nightclubs and wreaked havoc on neighborhoods in our community.”
He recalled a party held in his district that was billed as “The Wet Dreams Party.” 1,000 people paid to attend, Friedson said.
“This legislation will help ensure the punishment for these dangerous and disruptive activities,” he noted.
“These folks aren’t getting permits, and there is no reason to do that when the stick is not big enough,” Luedtke said, noting that the parties often are very lucrative for the host.
Tax exempt organizations are not subject to this proposed legislation if the entire profit made at the event benefits the organization.
Councilmembers Gabe Albornoz, Marilyn Balcombe, Kate Stewart, Evan Glass and Sidney Katz also are sponsors of the bill.
