A new dry zone surrounding the Ovingham Underpass came into effect 6 November 2025, following concern about anti-social behaviour.

The Commissioner for Consumer and Business Services Brett Humphrey approved an interim 14-day dry zone, while the Minister considers the application for it to be a permanent dry area.

The dry zone boundary encompasses the reserve, land and associated road reserves, kerbs and footpaths beneath and near the Torrens Road Underpass, Ovingham.

The decision comes after requests for its consideration were made to the Minister from local MPs and the City of Prospect and Charles Sturt in response to community concern regarding anti-social behaviour.

The anti-social behaviour includes excessive alcohol consumption, vandalism, harassment, theft and serious incidents of violence with approximately 64 calls out from SAPOL to the area in the past year.

SAPOL has identified alcohol as a driver and suggested a dry zone to the councils to manage behaviours.

A dedicated cross agency working group has also been established between state and local governments including SAPOL, DHS Remote Visitors Outreach, Drug and Alcohol Services SA, the City of Charles Sturt and the City of Prospect.

The City of Charles Sturt received a petition from community members in favour of a dry zone and is undertaking community consultation until 11 November, while the City of Prospect supports the introduction of a dry zone.

The Minister will consider the results of the consultation in her decision for a permanent dry area.

Find a dry zone on the CBS website.

Dry area details - Ovingham and Renown Park  Area 1