Utah's Full-Strength Beer Laws: Where To Buy?

Utah has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the United States. The state has a unique method of judging alcoholic content by weight, which is no longer used elsewhere. In 2019, the state updated its laws to allow a maximum of 5% ABV beer to be sold in grocery stores and poured on draft, up from a previous limit of 4% ABV. Beers above 5% ABV can be purchased from breweries or state-run liquor stores, but they must be bottled or canned and cannot be enjoyed on draft.

Beer above 5% ABV must be bottled or canned

Beer lovers in Utah have had to contend with some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the United States. While these laws have been relaxed in recent years, there are still some unique aspects to Utah's liquor laws that require a bit of explaining.

One of the key things to know is that beer above 5% ABV must be bottled or canned. This means that if you're looking for a stronger beer, you won't be able to get it on draft in any bar or pub in Utah. However, you may be able to find bottled or canned varieties of higher-strength brews in some establishments.

The reason for this restriction lies in the way Utah measures alcohol content. Unlike most other places, Utah judges the alcoholic content of drinks by weight, which is an outdated system that has led to some confusion. For example, 3.2% by weight is actually equivalent to 4% ABV, which is the same strength as many popular beers such as Guinness.

In late 2019, Utah updated its laws to allow beer up to 5% ABV to be sold in grocery stores, gas stations, and other similar outlets. This change opened the door for a wider variety of beers to be available in local stores, as many big-brand favourites fall within this ABV range. However, for beers stronger than 5% ABV, a trip to a liquor store is still necessary.

Liquor stores in Utah are state-run and can be found in most larger cities. These stores carry a decent selection of beers, wines, and liquors, all of which are above 5% ABV. It's important to note that these stores are closed on Sundays and public holidays, and often close as early as 7 pm on other days.

While the restrictions on beer above 5% ABV may be an inconvenience for some, it hasn't stopped Utah from having a thriving craft beer scene. Many breweries in the state are producing delicious and creative beers that fall within the 5% ABV limit, and these can be enjoyed both in the breweries themselves and from the comfort of your own home.

Beer above 5% ABV can be bought at breweries or state liquor stores

If you're looking to buy beer above 5% ABV in Utah, you have a couple of options. Firstly, you can head to a brewery, where you'll be able to purchase their own bottled or canned beers above this limit. Alternatively, you can visit a state-run liquor store, where you'll find a wide range of beers, wines, and spirits. These stores are prevalent in larger cities and offer reasonable prices. However, they are closed on Sundays and public holidays, and their operating hours vary, so it's a good idea to plan ahead.

It's worth noting that Utah's liquor laws have evolved over time, and the state has been working to modernise them. As of November 2019, the alcohol by volume (ABV) limit for beer sold in grocery stores, convenience stores, and certain licensed establishments was increased from 4% to 5%. This change brought a wider variety of beers to local stores and was celebrated by many.

While the laws and options for purchasing alcohol in Utah may differ from other states, it's not a dry state, and visitors can still enjoy a drink. The unique aspects of Utah's liquor laws mainly revolve around the different licenses held by restaurants, bars, and other establishments, which dictate what they can serve and when.

Beer is available in grocery stores and bars up to 5% ABV

In Utah, beer is available in grocery stores and bars up to 5% ABV. This limit was increased from 4% ABV in 2019, which was a significant change for the state.

The alcohol content of drinks in Utah is judged by weight, which is an older system that most of the world stopped using a long time ago. 3.2% by weight is the same strength as 4% by volume, which is the typical strength of most sessionable world beers.

The new limit of 5% ABV has opened the door for a wider variety of beers in local stores, including some big-brand favourites. Budweiser was so happy about the change that they brought the Clydesdales to town to give the 4% beer a public funeral procession.

The new limit also means that some breweries are brewing their beer at 5% ABV so that it can be easily accessible in grocery stores across the state.

It's important to note that this law only applies to beer. Wine and cider are not covered by this rule, and you may see them at any strength on draft.

Alcoholic beverages can be purchased at grocery stores until 11 pm

Alcoholic beverages can be purchased at grocery stores in Utah until 11 pm. The law states that beer sold in grocery stores must not exceed 5% ABV (alcohol by volume) or 4% alcohol by weight. This change in the law, which came into effect in November 2019, was celebrated by many Utah residents.

The new law means that a wider variety of beers are now available in local stores, including some big-brand favourites. Budweiser was so pleased with the change that they paraded the Budweiser Clydesdales through downtown Salt Lake City.

However, it is important to note that wine and liquor are not available in grocery stores and must be purchased from state-run liquor stores. These stores are closed on Sundays and public holidays and often close as early as 7 pm.

Utah has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the United States. This is largely due to the influence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to which 55% of Utah residents belong. The Church advises against the consumption of alcohol for its members.

Despite these restrictions, it is possible to purchase and consume alcohol in Utah. In addition to grocery stores, alcoholic beverages can be purchased from state-run liquor stores, bars, restaurants, and some other licensed establishments. The legal drinking age in Utah is 21 years old, and it is important to always carry ID when purchasing alcohol.

Alcoholic beverages can be served in restaurants from 11:30 am on weekdays

Alcoholic beverages can be served in Utah restaurants from 11:30 am on weekdays. However, there are some important things to note about alcohol laws in the state. Firstly, Utah has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the US. This is largely due to the influence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to which 55% of Utah residents belong, which advises against alcohol consumption for its members.

Utah's alcohol laws have been modernised in recent years, but some quirks remain. For example, until 2009, you needed a "private club membership" to enter bars. Another unique aspect of Utah's liquor laws is the difference between a bar and a restaurant. Alcohol can be ordered in a restaurant from 11:30 am - 1 am, but it must be accompanied by food. This is not the case for taverns, breweries and bars, which do not require patrons to order food. However, many eateries choose to license themselves as bars so they can serve those who just want a drink.

The type of alcohol that can be purchased in Utah also varies depending on the location. Beer, liquor and wine can be purchased in restaurants, bars, and other licensed establishments such as hotels and grocery stores. However, the strength of beer sold in these places is limited to 5% ABV. For beer above 5% ABV, you need to go to a brewery or a state-run liquor store.

It's also important to note that the laws around alcohol in Utah are strictly enforced, and IDs are rigorously checked. So, if you're planning on drinking in Utah, make sure you have a valid form of ID!

Frequently asked questions