In an effort to discourage underage drinking, even when done on private property, the Lakeville Police Department has drafted a Social Host Ordinance (PDF). The ordinance would make adults criminally responsible if they knowingly organize, supervise, or permit a gathering on public or private property where underage people consume alcohol, even if they did not supply the alcohol or are not present at the event.
Most often, underage drinking occurs outside the presence of or without the knowledge of parents. This ordinance applies only to instances where a parent or other adult is either present or condones the activity. This ordinance does not apply to conduct solely between an underage person and his or her parent(s) while in the parent's household.