Parents, landlords, tenants can be fined if youths drink

By Charles Levin, clevin@VenturaCountyStar.com
March 8, 2007
Article courtesy of VenturaCountyStar.com

Starting late next month, Oxnard property owners will face stiff fines if they allow underage drinking in their homes.

Under Tuesday night’s unanimous City Council decision, Oxnard joins Ventura County and seven other cities with so-called “social host” ordinances.

The law is aimed at stemming problems that arise when those under 21 drink at friends’ or parents’ homes. Property owners, landlords and tenants will face a $250 fine for a first offense. Penalties will escalate to $1,000 for repeat violations.

The law will take effect in mid-April