Durham County ABC has served the community since 1937, balancing public safety with quality service. A portion of every sale funds local programs — law enforcement training, addiction prevention, and grants to nonprofits across Durham County.
Serving Durham Since 1937
The Durham County ABC Board was established in 1937 following the Pasquotank Act, implemented by county vote on May 15, 1937. The county commissioners initially appointed three board members with three-year terms. In 2001, the State Legislature authorized the appointment of two additional members, bringing the total to five.
As defined by NC General Statutes, Durham County ABC operates as an independent local political subdivision. The Board manages retail liquor stores and, through contracted law enforcement, enforces alcoholic beverage control laws. State law requires the Board to allocate at least 5% of profits toward law enforcement and at least 7% toward alcohol education and rehabilitation. Surpluses must be distributed to Durham County and City of Durham general funds.
For details on distributions and operations, see the audited financial records.
Mission Statement
The Durham County ABC Board's mission includes:
- Ensuring alcoholic beverage sales occur responsibly and only to legally eligible individuals
- Building community relations through education and information on ABC matters
- Managing resources to enhance operations and maximize revenue distributions to local government
- Collaborating with governmental agencies to preserve and improve the state's ABC system