§ 178:34 — Local Option

I. Any town or city may allow the operation of social districts according to the provisions of this subdivision, in the following manner:
(a) In a town, the question shall be placed on the warrant of an annual town meeting under the procedures set out in RSA 39:3, and shall be voted on a ballot. In a city, the legislative body may vote to place the question on the official ballot for any regular municipal election, or, in the alternative, shall place the question on the official ballot for any regular municipal election upon submission to the legislative body of a petition signed by 5 percent of the registered voters.
(b) The selectmen, aldermen, or city council shall hold a public hearing on the question at least 15 days but not more than 30 days before the question is to be voted on. Notice of the hearing shall be posted in at least 2 public places in the municipality and published in a newspaper of general circulation at least 7 days before the hearing.
(c) The wording of the question shall be substantially as follows: "Shall we allow the operation of social districts within the town or city?"
II. If a majority of those voting on the question vote "Yes," social districts may be operated within the town or city.
III. If the question is not approved, the question may later be voted upon according to the provisions of paragraph I at the next annual town meeting or regular municipal election.
IV. A municipality that has voted to allow the operation of social districts may consider rescinding its action in the manner described in paragraph I of this section.
IV-a. An unincorporated place may allow the operation of social districts by majority vote of the county delegation, after a public hearing is held.
V. The liquor commission shall maintain a list of municipalities where social districts are approved.

Legislative History

2025, 158:1, eff. Sept. 5, 2025.