To improve public safety, alcohol-free zones (AFZs) are designed to prevent excessive consumption of alcohol and to combat anti-social behaviour. AFZs can be an effective public space management tool to address community concern for specific locations and to prevent the escalation of irresponsible street drinking to incidents involving serious crime.

AFZs cover many public roads, footpaths, car parks and laneways across the Northern Beaches. Drinking alcohol in these zones is prohibited 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. AFZs may be renewed every four years, and may also be established for special events. Police and authorised officers can immediately confiscate and dispose of alcohol in these places. Anyone refusing to co-operate can be charged with obstruction, which carries a maximum penalty of up to $2,200.