Investigation Into Novato House Party Under Way, Police Say

Novato, CA — Police in Novato are investigating an alleged violation of the city's social host ordinance after officers responded to a Fourth of July party where minors may have been drinking alcohol.

A complaint about the party in the 100 block of Germaine Place — off Ignacio Boulevard and Marin Oaks Drive — was received at about 11:20 p.m. Monday, according to a statement Tuesday from the Novato Police Department.

Responding officers "located a house party along with groups of juveniles in the neighborhood," according to the statement.

"An investigation suggested the party had included alcoholic beverages being consumed by minors," the statement continued, noting that Novato police have responded to the residence in the past for similar alleged occurrences.

Officers spoke with the homeowner about a possible alleged violation of the social host ordinance and as of Tuesday, an investigation into the party was ongoing.

Police encouraged Novato residents to visit the city's website to learn more about the social host ordinance, which states in part:

"...Novato’s Social Host Accountability City Ordinance, introduced in 1992, allows law enforcement officials to issue misdemeanor citations, with a cost of up to $1,000, to the host of a party where youth are in possession and consuming alcohol. If the host is a minor (under 18), both the host and his or her guardians may be responsible for fines. In addition to misdemeanor fees, the underage host and/or parent may be charged for police service costs, which can run up to $2,000..."

"The Novato Police Department strictly enforces youth alcohol violations to ensure the safety of minors and the citizens of the community," the statement concluded.

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