Utah's Sunday Beer Buying Laws Explained

Utah has a reputation for having strict liquor laws, but it is not a dry state. While its laws have become more relaxed in recent years, there are still some unique aspects to Utah's liquor laws that are worth noting. One of the biggest differences is between bars and restaurants. Beer, liquor, and wine can be ordered in a restaurant from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., but since the establishment is licensed as a restaurant, those drinks must be ordered with food. On the other hand, taverns, breweries, and bars are allowed to sell alcohol during the same hours as restaurants without requiring patrons to order food.

So, can you buy beer on a Sunday in Utah? Yes, you can buy beer in Utah any day of the week, including Sundays. Bars and restaurants are open at 10 a.m. at the earliest, and gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores can sell beer during all hours of operation. On Sundays, restaurants with a limited license can sell beer from 10:30 a.m. to midnight, and beer-only locations like taverns, bowling alleys, and ski resorts can sell beer from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Beer can be purchased in Utah on Sundays at grocery and convenience stores

Yes, beer can be purchased in Utah on Sundays at grocery and convenience stores.

Utah has been making efforts to modernise its liquor laws, and while some may still find them outdated, they are much more relaxed than they once were. Beer can be purchased seven days a week, including Sundays, at grocery and convenience stores.

However, there are some important things to note. Firstly, state-run liquor stores are closed on Sundays and holidays, so purchasing liquor, wine, and stronger beers and ciders can be more challenging on these days. Secondly, while beer can be purchased on Sundays, there are restrictions on the type of beer that can be sold. In 2019, a new bill was passed that allowed beers with up to 5% alcohol by volume (ABV) to be sold in grocery and convenience stores. Beers with a higher ABV can only be purchased at state liquor stores or from the brewery itself.

It is also worth mentioning that Utah has strict laws regarding the consumption of alcohol. For example, the legal drinking age in Utah is 21, and it is illegal for minors to consume alcohol. Additionally, Utah has the strictest DUI limit in the country, with a blood alcohol content limit of 0.05%.

Restaurants with a limited license can sell beer on Sundays from 10:30 am to midnight

Yes, you can buy beer in Utah on a Sunday, even though the state has a reputation for strict alcohol laws.

Restaurants with Limited Licenses

On Sundays, restaurants with a limited license can sell beer from 10:30 am to midnight. However, you must order food with your beer. This rule applies to both weekdays and weekends.

Other Licensed Beer-Only Establishments

Beer-only locations like taverns, bowling alleys, and ski resorts can sell beer on Sundays from 10 am to 1 am. Again, this applies to legal holidays too.

Grocery and Convenience Stores

Beer can be purchased at grocery and convenience stores every day, during all hours of operation.

State Liquor Stores

State-run liquor stores are closed on Sundays and holidays, so you won't be able to buy beer there. However, breweries with full-service licenses are open on Sundays and do not require the purchase of food with beer.

Beer-only locations like taverns, bowling alleys, and ski resorts sell beer on Sundays from 10 am to 1 am

While Utah has historically been known for its strict alcohol laws, recent changes have made it easier to purchase beer in the state. Beer-only locations offer a convenient option for those looking to enjoy a drink without the requirement of ordering food.

It's important to note that the laws regarding alcohol sales can vary between cities and specific locations within Utah. The rules mentioned above are at the state level, and certain cities may have additional regulations in place.

In addition, Utah has strict laws regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol for minors. It is illegal for minors to consume alcohol, and those selling it are required to check the verified ID of anyone they presume to be under 21. So, make sure to carry a valid ID if you're planning to purchase alcohol.

State-run liquor stores are closed on Sundays and holidays

While it is possible to buy beer in Utah on a Sunday, there are some restrictions. State-run liquor stores are closed on Sundays and holidays, so getting hold of wine, liquor, and stronger beers and ciders can be more difficult. However, there are still plenty of options for purchasing alcohol on Sundays and holidays.

Firstly, it's worth noting that Utah-based distillers can sell their products directly to consumers 365 days a year. Several distilleries in Salt Lake County and Summit County are open on Sundays and holidays, offering a range of liquors, including vodka, gin, bourbon, and whiskey.

Brewers may also sell their products to the public on Sundays and holidays, provided it is from their manufacturing facility. Many breweries across Utah offer this service, with canned and bottled beers available to go seven days a week.

The same rules apply to wine and cider manufacturers, who can also sell their products on Sundays and holidays. Additionally, any restaurant or bar can reseal an unfinished bottle of wine or cider for you to take away, as long as a portion of it was consumed on the premises.

For those looking to purchase beer on Sundays, there are several options. Bars and restaurants are allowed to sell alcohol from 10 am to 1 am, and beer-only locations like taverns, bowling alleys, and ski resorts can sell beer from 10 am to 1 am on Sundays as well. Restaurants with a limited license must sell food with beer and can only sell it from 10:30 am to midnight on Sundays. Gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores can also sell beer during all hours of operation, and grocery stores sell beer from 10 am to 1 am every day.

So, while state-run liquor stores are closed on Sundays and holidays, there are still numerous options for purchasing alcohol in Utah on these days. Whether it's visiting a distillery, brewery, or wine and cider manufacturer, or enjoying a drink at a bar or restaurant, there are plenty of ways to access alcohol in Utah on Sundays and holidays.

Breweries and taprooms are open on Sundays and can sell beer until midnight

Buying Beer in Utah on Sundays

Utah has been working to modernise its liquor laws in recent years, making it easier to purchase beer. Breweries and taprooms are open on Sundays and can sell beer until midnight.

Opening Hours

Breweries and taprooms are open seven days a week, from 10 am to 1 am, though many close at midnight. Sunday sales are permitted, and food does not need to be served with beer in these establishments.

Beer Types

While you'll only find 5% alcohol by volume beer on tap, beers of any percentage are available in bottles, and to-go beers of all percentages are also offered at some breweries in bottles and cans.

ID

All adults must be prepared to show ID when heading to a brewery or taproom in Utah. No matter how old you look, you won’t be served without it.

Other Information

Beer delivery is currently illegal in Utah. Heavy beers (over 5% ABV) purchased to-go must be bought at a Utah state liquor store or from the brewery itself.

Frequently asked questions