Permits and alcohol rules
San Mateo's picnic rules say alcohol is prohibited unless a city alcohol permit has been issued, that permits including alcohol must end by early evening, and that alcohol is not permitted at Laurelwood, Parkside Aquatic, Ryder and Harborview parks.source 1 The same rules bar glass bottles at any city park and prohibit sound amplification equipment, which the city lists as including speakers, DJ setups and microphones.source 1 For larger gatherings, the city's Special Community Event guide says a permit is needed for events affecting city parks, streets, sidewalks or other public property, and that alcohol at an event needs committee approval plus a state ABC license, a process the guide says can take at least two months. Its insurance standards require liquor liability coverage when alcohol is served at a special event, and the guide says the San Mateo Police Department can stop alcohol sales or use that do not comply with the permit.source 2 ABC lists San Mateo County under its San Jose district office.source 3 Rules change; confirm current requirements with the city and ABC before planning alcohol service.