The Gulf Shores City Council has banned all alcohol on its beaches effective immediately.

During a special meeting on Friday, the council unanimously adopted an ordinance to prohibit the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages along the entire Gulf beaches within city limits. The ban is in effect through April 17.

Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft spoke previously about such a ban, saying excessive alcohol consumption was becoming a problem.

"The city has a responsibility to protect the health, safety and welfare of our residents and visitors and an obligation to protect the reputation of the city as a family-friendly destination," said Craft. "In order to keep spring break in Gulf Shores a safe environment, it is time we take action."

This new ban prohibits any possession or consumption of any alcoholic beverage on any portion of the beach south of the protected sand dunes within the Gulf Shores city limits from the west end of Gulf State Park Beach to the very end of West Beach.

Anyone who violates the new ordinance can face a fine up to $500 or up to six months in jail.

The Gulf Shores City Council stated it feels the "prolonged consumption of alcohol this year is directly associated with undesirable behavior and an increased risk to public safety," especially with the number of college-aged people drawn there during spring break.

"Gulf Shores has long been known as a favorite beach destination for families from across the Southeast and Midwest," said Craft. "In recent years, we have seen an increase in students coming here for spring break, and we again want to reiterate that we are a family-friendly destination that welcomes visitors of all ages to enjoy our beaches and destination responsibly. We as city leaders have an obligation to do whatever is necessary to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for our citizens and our visitors and to protect our beaches."

This is similar to the alcohol ban imposed at Panama City Beach. Some say it's made the city tamer by driving partiers away.