Collingswood Voters Approve Alcohol Sales Ending 138-Year Ban

Voters in Collingswood, New Jersey, have approved a ballot measure to permit the sale of alcoholic beverages, officially bringing an end to the municipality's 138-year ban on retail liquor sales. The decision repeals local regulations that had maintained the borough's status as a dry town since 1886.

The passage of the referendum authorizes municipal leaders to create and issue retail liquor licenses for local establishments, including full-service restaurants, bars, and retail package stores. Officials are slated to determine the total number of licenses to be allocated based on state population metrics and local zoning rules.

Before the referendum, dining establishments within the municipality operated exclusively under bring-your-own-bottle policies. Local commercial advocates anticipate that the availability of liquor licenses will encourage new business development, increase commercial property values, and generate additional tax revenue for the borough.

The initiative faced multiple legislative reviews prior to reaching the ballot, as town leaders evaluated the potential economic benefits against historical community standards. Proponents emphasized that allowing sales would level the playing field with surrounding municipalities that already permit alcohol service.

Municipal officials noted that the regulatory framework, including licensing fees, operating hours, and enforcement procedures, will be drafted in upcoming public council sessions. The application timeline for prospective business owners is expected to open after the official certification of the vote.