Mississippi law allows cities to establish a Leisure and Recreation District (LRD). LRDs are established by city ordinance. Restaurants and bars located within the boundaries of an LRD may serve mixed drinks to their patrons and allow patrons to leave the licensed premises with an open container of alcohol (to-go cup). However, patrons must stay within the boundaries of the LRD. Enforcement of the LRD is performed by local law enforcement personnel. A list of all municipalities that have established an LRD can be found here. LRDs
Due to the emergency situation all Mississippians are facing, ABC is now allowing drinks in the "to go" orders made by patrons for curbside pick-up if the restaurant is located in an LRD. It is still illegal for premises outside of LRD's to allow patrons to leave with mixed drinks. This is because there is a statutory prohibition on patrons leaving a restaurant or bar with alcohol unless they are located in an LRD. Therefore, it is not legal for permittees outside of an LRD's boundaries to include mixed drinks in their "to go" orders.
Permittees in an LRD can serve “to-go” cups for curbside service until Restaurants and Bars are allowed to open for normal business; permittees outside of an LRD cannot serve “to-go” cups for curbside service .Please contact your city if you are unsure if you are located within an LRD or if you have any other questions about an LRD.