The problem of excessive drinking and its related negative health and social consequences has been identified as a serious public health issue. This action guide was developed to provide information on evidence-based community prevention strategies to key stakeholders, such as public health departments and community coalitions, concerned with the problem of excessive drinking and its related negative consequences. The strategy discussed in detail in this guide involves reducing the density of alcohol outlets in communities in order to decrease the nuisance problems associated with these establishments. The guide presents a case study of the program implemented in Vallejo, CA. The next section of the guide presents the results of a review of research on the effect of alcohol outlet density on surrounding communities. The review found that State and local policy changes that increase the density of alcohol outlets significantly increase alcohol consumption and related problems; privatizing alcohol sales increases the number of retail alcohol establishments; the number of alcohol outlets decreases when governments regain control of alcohol sales; and bans on alcohol sales can significantly reduce alcohol consumption and related problems. A detailed discussion on alcohol outlet density is followed by a discussion of different approaches available for regulating alcohol outlets. The final section of the guide offers suggestions for community groups on ways to influence policy aimed at regulating alcohol outlets. References