The Durham County ABC Board contracts with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, Alcohol Law Enforcement Branch (ALE) for enforcement of NC ABC laws within Durham County. ALE investigates violations of North Carolina ABC laws.
To report a violation, contact the ALE Tip Line at 877-ALE-AGENT.
Purpose of ABC Law Enforcement
Local ABC officers enforce ABC laws and the Controlled Substances Act after taking the peace officer oath. They may arrest individuals and conduct investigatory actions for any criminal offense, collaborating with other law enforcement agencies serving Durham County.
Enforcement at Mixed Beverage Establishments
Local ABC officers have authority to investigate licensed premises, conduct inspections viewing the entire location, and examine permittee records. Inspections may occur "at any time it reasonably appears that someone is on the premises." Refusing inspection access constitutes grounds for permit revocation or suspension; obstructing inspection is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
For more information about MXB permits, see Mixed Beverage Permits →