PHOTO | TROY HULL

Beer and wine will go on sale at Charlotte 49ers football games at Jerry Richardson starting Aug. 29 against Gardner-Webb.

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Alcohol will be for sale at Charlotte 49ers football games.

The university announced Friday a pilot program for beer and wine sales at Jerry Richardson Stadium starting with the season opener Aug. 29 against Gardner-Webb.

All North Carolina regulations regarding alcohol sales remain in effect. Patrons must be at least 21 years old, present valid identification, and are limited to buying one drink at a time. Buyers will receive a wristband upon presenting proof they are legally eligible to drink. However, valid identification must be shown before each purchase.

Gov. Roy Cooper signed into law in June a bill that allows schools in the University of North Carolina system the flexibility to sell alcohol at on-campus arenas. Charlotte joins a growing number of Division I campuses to approve sales, which supporters say open a new revenue stream as well as deter illegal consumption. Foes contend the law will be disruptive and encourages problem drinking.

UNC Chapel Hill, North Carolina State, North Carolina A&T and East Carolina, all Division I schools, have already implemented sales. Division II colleges such as Winston-Salem State and Elizabeth City State in the CIAA are eligible but haven’t announced plans.

Four locations inside Richardson Stadium will sell beverages ranging from craft and domestic beer to wine. Upon purchase, buyers may return to his or her seat with the drink and sales conclude at the end of the third quarter. An alcohol-free tailgate will still be available for students at home games.

The football prototype will be incorporated at men’s and women’s soccer games at Transamerica Field, men’s and women’s basketball at Halton Arena, and baseball at Hayes Stadium.

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