Columbia Entertainment areas restricted ordinance (§ 4-96)
Chapter 4: Alcoholic Beverages · Article IV. Conduct on Licensed Premises
In short: Licensed bars and similar businesses in Columbia may not let entertainers or patrons perform on the bar, on any food or drink serving surface, or anywhere visible from the street or sidewalk. Performances must be on a raised dais, platform or designated area set apart from patrons. Violations are a misdemeanor.
Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.
Any person licensed under the provisions of this chapter who permits or allows any entertainer or any patron to perform upon the bar or upon any other place used for serving food or beverages or in any place within the premises open to view from the sidewalk or street, or allows such performance other than on a raised dais or platform or some designated area adequately set aside from the immediate vicinity where patrons may be seated or standing shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Official source: City of Columbia official Code of Ordinances (online): look up Sec. 4-96
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.