DRINKING in certain areas within the shire will continue to be banned as Yarra Ranges Council updates and looks to increase its alcohol-free areas.
There are 19 areas identified as alcohol-free zones. The public will now have the chance to make submissions on the proposed locations.
The update is due to the new local laws, recently approved by the council. It means the 2007 local laws relating to the prohibition of liquor in public places are no longer valid.
The 19 areas include locations in Yarra Junction, Chirnside Park, Kilsyth, Lilydale, Monbulk, Montrose, Mooroolbark, Mount Evelyn, Upwey and Warburton.
The council is hoping to increase the area of proposed bans to include other parts of Yarra Glen, Coldstream, Tecoma, Chirnside Park and Mount Evelyn.
Many of the areas are time-restricted dry zones, meaning the consumption of alcohol is banned at night.
Speaking at a council meeting last week, councillor Jeanette McRae said it was very important to get feedback from the community and to keep public amenities safe.
"I am happy with what we have achieved already in Healesville and Yarra Glen, where we have the time-restricted areas. It allows people to have a wine with a picnic. It looks after people who are just having a nice day out," she said.
Like the previous local laws, the proposed new laws will be enforced by the police.
Since 2007, a total of 300 infringements have been issued by police to people consuming liquor in a public place.
A Yarra Ranges spokesman said the council was not aware of any community opinion that there were too many alcohol-prohibited areas within the shire.
"The purpose of advertising for comment is to allow consideration of issues that are raised by the community," he said.
Public consultation is open from September 26 to October 26. Details: 1300 368 333.