Produced by the Columbia, SC Police Department, the purpose of this Best Practice Guide is to assist nightlife business owners in maintaining safe bars, lounges, and clubs free from illegal activity including: drug sales, underage drinking, over consumption of alcohol, violence, prostitution and sex offenses. Guidelines were adopted and expanded on from existing guides produced by the New York Police Department, New York Night Life Association, the Washington, DC Metropolitan Police Department and the Providence Rhode Island Police Department, as suggested ways to achieve that goal. These guidelines intend to convey a general road map for owners and managers. The information includes does not include laws that are applicable to all establishments and situations.