Increased spatial separation between alcohol retailers and social establishments
In a bid to curb alcohol consumption and promote a healthier community, the Mayor of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Yevgeny Belayev, has signed a Decree that tightens the requirements for the location of alcohol-selling stores. The new rules will come into effect on September 1, 2025.
The Decree increases the minimum acceptable distance between retail alcohol sales points and social institutions in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Alcohol sales will be prohibited within 100 meters of sports facilities, hospitals and clinics, kindergartens and schools, residential buildings, and military installations. Additionally, alcohol sales will be prohibited within 100 meters of locations of potentially hazardous facilities.
The tightening of requirements was adopted in response to numerous complaints from residents who have expressed dissatisfaction with the excessive number of alcohol sales points. Some visitors to these points exhibit inappropriate behavior, and empty alcohol containers are often found near homes and social facilities, setting a negative example for children.
However, restaurants and cafes with modern, large halls, good cuisine, and service are exempt from the 100-meter rule due to their contribution to tourism development in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. For these establishments, the minimum distance to schools, clinics, sports facilities, or residential buildings is 30 meters if they are located in large buildings.
A transitional period has been introduced for beer and beer drink retailers, lasting until December 31, 2028. Entrepreneurs can use this period to change their assortment, find a new location, or adjust their business model to comply with the new rules while maintaining profitability. This transitional period does not apply to the 100-meter distance rule for alcohol sales near kindergartens, schools, hospitals, clinics, sports facilities, military installations, potentially hazardous facilities, and residential buildings, which comes into effect on September 1, 2025.
The new rules are seen as a significant step towards reducing alcohol consumption among the population, contributing to a healthier and safer community in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
The Decree also includes a prohibition on alcohol sales within 100 meters of locations promoting health-and-wellness, such as fitness-and-exercise centers and mental-health facilities, to prevent negative influences on the wellbeing and mindset of city residents.
Participants in various science and research organizations in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky have shown support for the new Decree, believing it will create a more conducive environment for their work and contribute to overall healthier lifestyle choices among the population.
