Buying Beer In Utah: What's The Deal?

Utah's liquor laws have long been known for their unique and confusing nature. While the state has made efforts to modernise its alcohol legislation, its alcohol laws remain among the strictest and most complex in the US. So, can you buy beer in Utah? The answer is yes, but there are several rules and restrictions to be aware of.

Beer with an ABV of 5% or less is sold in grocery and convenience stores

Beer with an ABV of 5% or less can be purchased any day of the week, including Sundays, from grocery and convenience stores during their normal operating hours. However, bars and restaurants can only open at 10 am at the earliest.

It is important to note that Utah has some of the most strict and complex alcohol laws in the United States. While alcohol can be purchased and consumed in the state, visitors and residents should be aware of these unique regulations. For example, beer is the only alcoholic beverage that can be sold in grocery and convenience stores. Wine and spirits must be purchased from state-run liquor stores, which are closed on Sundays and major holidays. Additionally, Utah has strict DUI laws, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.05%.

When purchasing alcohol in Utah, it is important to follow the regulations and only buy from authorized sellers to avoid legal issues.

Beer with an ABV of over 5% is sold at state-run liquor stores

Utah is considered a control state, which means that the state has a monopoly over the wholesale and/or retail distribution of alcoholic beverages. It is one of 17 control states in the US, and one of only six that control the sale of wine. Notably, Utah is the only state that remains in full retail control of beer with an ABV higher than 5%.

Utah's state-run liquor stores are the only place where wine and spirits can be sold, and there are around 40-50 of these stores located across the state. These stores are typically open from Monday to Saturday, usually from 11 am to 7 pm or 10 pm, and are closed on Sundays and state and federal holidays.

Beer with an ABV of 5% or lower, on the other hand, can be sold in grocery and convenience stores in Utah. This change was implemented in November 2019, replacing an 86-year-old law that limited beer to 3.2% ABV. This new law allows for a much wider variety of beers to be sold in local stores, including some big-brand favourites.

In addition to state-run liquor stores and grocery/convenience stores, alcoholic beverages can also be purchased at licensed restaurants, bars, taverns, breweries, and other licensed establishments. These establishments may have different rules regarding the service of alcohol, such as requiring food to be ordered with drinks or only allowing customers over a certain age.

You can buy beer in Utah that's over 3.2% ABV

Yes, you can buy beer in Utah that's over 3.2% ABV. In November 2019, a new bill replaced the 86-year-old law that restricted the alcohol limit for brewing to 3.2% ABV. This new bill allows beers with up to 4% alcohol by weight or 5% ABV to be sold in grocery stores, convenience stores, and on tap at bars and restaurants.

Utah has made significant strides in modernizing its liquor laws in recent years. While some unique aspects of Utah's liquor laws remain, such as the distinction between bars and restaurants, the state now offers easier access to a wider variety of beers.

• Beers with an ABV of 5% or lower are sold in grocery and convenience stores.
• Bars and restaurants can sell draft beer up to 5% ABV and higher ABV beers in cans or bottles.
• You can only buy one drink at a time, so no pitchers of beer or your favourite adult beverage.
• Utah has a strict DUI limit of 0.05%, so it's important to plan ahead if you intend to drink and need transportation.
• The sale and service of alcoholic beverages are regulated by the State of Utah, which aims to make alcohol available while neither promoting nor encouraging its consumption.
• You must be at least 21 years old to purchase and consume alcohol in Utah, and valid identification is always required.

Beer can be purchased in restaurants with a beer-only license

However, it is important to note that persons under the age of 21 are not allowed on the premises of certain "beer-only" establishments. Additionally, beer with an ABV of 5% or less can be purchased in grocery and convenience stores, while beer with a higher ABV must be bought from a Utah state liquor store or the brewery itself.

You can buy to-go beers of all percentages at some breweries

Utah's liquor laws have been subject to change over time. The state has made strides to modernise its laws, making it easier for visitors to purchase and consume alcohol.

In November 2019, a new bill replaced the 86-year-old law that limited the alcohol content of beer to 3.2% ABV. This new legislation allows for beers with up to 5% ABV to be sold in grocery stores, convenience stores, and on tap at bars and restaurants.

While Utah's alcohol laws can be confusing for visitors, it is important to understand and follow these regulations to avoid any legal issues. One such regulation is that alcoholic drinks in restaurants must be ordered with food. However, this is not required at taverns, breweries, or bars, which are allowed to sell alcohol during the same hours as restaurants (11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.).

When it comes to purchasing beer to-go, you have a few options. Beers of all percentages can be bought at some breweries in bottles and cans. Additionally, beers up to 5% ABV can be purchased at grocery and convenience stores every day of the week. For beers with a higher ABV, you will need to visit a state liquor store, which is typically open Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays and holidays.

So, if you're looking to buy beer in Utah, you have a variety of options, including breweries, grocery stores, convenience stores, and state liquor stores. Just remember to follow the local regulations, and always drink responsibly.

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