Alcohol laws of the United States by state

Monday, December 17th, 2007

The alcohol laws of the United States vary by state, of course, with some peculiar laws in some states.

Alabama:

Beer containers may not exceed 16 ounces (0.47 l).

Arkansas:

Only wine produced in-state may be sold in supermarkets.

California:

Sale or distribution of alcohol higher than 153 proof is illegal.

Kansas:

Kansas prohibited all alcohol from 1881 to 1948, and continued to prohibit on-premises sales of alcohol from 1949 to 1987. Sunday sales only have been allowed since 2005. Today, 29 counties still do not permit the on-premises sale of alcohol. 59 counties require a business to receive at least 30% of revenue from food sales to allow on-premises sale of alcohol.

Massachusetts:

No “Happy Hours” or other limited time discounts on alcoholic beverages. No fixed price open bar/all-you-can-drink (except at private functions). Only 2 drinks can be sold to an individual at any one time for on-premises consumption.

Nevada:

State law renders public intoxication legal, and explicitly prohibits any local or state law from making it a public offence.

New York:

All liquor stores must be owned by a single owner, who owns that store and lives within a certain distance of it — in effect banning chain liquor stores from the state.

Utah:

Restaurants and “Private Clubs” must buy from the State controlled store (no delivery) at retail prices. No alcohol served in restaurants without purchase of food. Only 3.2% beer available on tap.

Wisconsin:

Wisconsin permits the consumption of alcohol by minors, provided they are being supervised by parents/guardians.

Leave a Reply