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Columbia Possession of illegal whiskey ordinance (§ 4-34)

Chapter 4: Alcoholic Beverages · Article II. Intoxicating Liquor

In short: You may only possess liquor in Columbia if it came from a licensed seller under this article, or you have written or printed permission from the state alcohol and tobacco control supervisor and the package carries the official state seal. Home-fermented fruit juices for the household and its guests are allowed.

Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.

No person shall possess intoxicating liquor within the city unless the same has been acquired from some person holding a duly authorized license to sell the same under this article, or unless the intoxicating liquor is had or kept with the written or printed permission of the state supervisor of alcohol and tobacco control, and the package in which the intoxicating liquor is contained and from which it is taken for consumption has, while containing intoxicating liquor, been labeled and sealed with the official seal prescribed under the state law and regulations made thereunder. Nothing in this section shall be so construed as to prevent the natural fermentation of fruit juices in the home for the exclusive use of the occupants of the home and their guests.

Official source: City of Columbia official Code of Ordinances (online): look up Sec. 4-34

Text from Supplement 139 (September 3, 2026).

Last checked November 1, 2026. The city's official copy controls; this page is a reading copy, not legal advice.