Business Portal
Bringing Entertainment Zones to Downtown Chico and Meriam Park requires the collaboration of local businesses, the City of Chico and our community. Participating businesses play a key role in creating a safe, lively, and enjoyable experience for visitors. This website is currently under construction, more information will be added as we move forward.
Business FAQs
Business FAQs
Which businesses can participate?
- Businesses holding a valid California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption
- Establishments located within the official zone boundaries approved by the Chico City Council
- Busiensses willing to comply with all program regulations and safety standards.
How do I sign up my business to participate?
- Confirm eligibility: Check to make sure your business is located within the boundaries of the Downtown Chico Entertainment Zone or the Meriam Park Entertainment Zone.
- If you are the owner of an Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) licensed business, you must first complete the ABC Intent to Participate form.
- All businesses wishing to participate in the entertainment zone must notify the City of Chico of their intent to participate by filling out the City of Chico Entertainment Zone Participation form.
- The City of Chico will provide participating businesses with a printed sign to post at the front of your business showing that your business is participating in the entertainment zone.
- The City of Chico will provide ABC Licensed businesses with a starter kit including a small number of approved cups, stickers, and wristbands, along with ordering information. Additional approved cups, stickers, and wristbands must be purchased by the business.
Do we have to wristband every person?
Yes.
Anyone leaving your establishment with an alcoholic beverage must be wristbanded with your establishment's branded wristband. This is the only way to ensure alcohol within the Entertainment Zone is properly tracked and compliant with ABC requirements.
Anyone entering your establishment who is already wearing a wristband must receive a new wristband from your establishment before leaving with a beverage provided by your business.
Wristbands should only be given to patrons who are 21+ and who will be taking alcoholic beverages out of your business.
How do we explain the Entertainment Zone rules to visitors or those unfamiliar with the program?
The Entertainment Zone is designed to attract more visitors, encourage movement between businesses, and support the vibrancy of Downtown Chico and Meriam Park. Clear signage, simple explanations ("You just need a wristband to take your drink outside"), and consistent messaging across businesses will help ease confusion.
The process for a patron to participate is easy:
- They must be 21+ in age with a valid ID
- They must wear a wristband provided by your business
- They must stay within the Entertainment Zone boundaries while participating.
