Utah's Real Beer: Where To Buy And What To Know

Utah's liquor laws are some of the most restrictive in the United States. The state has a monopoly over the wholesale and retail distribution of alcoholic beverages, and its DUI laws are the strictest in the country. However, it is possible to buy real beer in Utah. In November 2019, a new bill replaced an 86-year-old law, allowing beers with 4% alcohol by weight or 5% ABV to be sold in grocery stores, convenience stores, and on draft at bars and restaurants. Beers with higher ABV are available at state liquor stores.

Beer with an ABV of 5% or less can be purchased in grocery and convenience stores

Yes, you can buy beer with an ABV of 5% or less in Utah. In fact, this has been the case since November 2019, when a new bill replaced the 86-year-old law that stated 3.2% beer was the alcohol limit for brewing.

In bars and restaurants, you can only buy beer and spirits one drink at a time. You can, however, purchase wine by the glass or the bottle.

It's worth noting that Utah has the strictest DUI limit in the country at 0.05% BAC. So, even if you're only planning on having a couple of drinks, it's best to leave the car behind.

Beer with an ABV of over 5% must be purchased from state-run liquor stores

Yes, you can buy beer in Utah that's over 3.2% ABV. In fact, since November 2019, a new bill has replaced the 86-year-old law that stated 3.2% ABV was the limit for brewing.

Beers with an ABV of 5% or lower can be sold in grocery and convenience stores and at establishments operating under a "beer only" type license, such as taverns, beer bars and some restaurants.

Utah's liquor stores have limited hours and are closed on Sundays and state and federal holidays. They are usually open from Monday to Saturday, from 11 am to 7 pm, although some may close as early as 5 pm or stay open until 10 pm.

If you're looking to buy beer with an ABV of over 5%, you'll need to plan your shopping accordingly.

There are some additional points to be aware of regarding the purchase and consumption of alcohol in Utah. Firstly, Utah has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the United States. A person must be 21 years old or older to buy or consume alcohol, and a valid ID is required to prove age.

Secondly, Utah is one of 17 control states, meaning the state has a monopoly over the wholesaling and retailing of some or all alcoholic beverages. It is the only state that remains in full retail control of beer higher than 5% ABV.

Thirdly, Utah has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.05%. This means that even one or two drinks could put someone over the legal limit.

Finally, there are some restrictions on where you can consume alcohol in public places. State law prohibits consuming liquor in a public building, park or stadium unless there is a license or event permit to do so. It is also prohibited to consume alcohol on a public bus or in the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

So, while it is possible to buy beer with an ABV of over 5% in Utah, there are strict rules governing its purchase and consumption.

Alcohol cannot be purchased in Utah on Sundays or holidays

State-run liquor stores are the only place where wine and spirits can be purchased, and they are closed on Sundays and holidays. These stores are generally open Monday to Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm, depending on the location.

Beer with an alcohol content of 5% ABV or less can be purchased in grocery and convenience stores, and is available every day of the week. However, bars and restaurants cannot open before 10 am.

Breweries, wineries, and distilleries are allowed to sell their products every day of the week, including Sundays. Licensed distilleries are the only exception to the Sunday rule, as they are permitted to sell their products directly to consumers.

Utah has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the United States. The state has a monopoly over the wholesale and retail distribution of alcoholic beverages, and unique aspects of its liquor laws can be confusing for visitors and residents alike. For example, in restaurants, alcoholic drinks must be ordered with food, and there are restrictions on the types of drinks that can be served (e.g., no "happy hour" discounts).

It's important to follow the regulations and purchase alcohol from the correct places to avoid legal issues.

Alcohol cannot be served in bars or restaurants after 1 am

Alcohol laws in Utah are some of the most restrictive in the United States. While alcohol is available for purchase in the state, there are several regulations in place that dictate how and when it can be served and consumed. One such regulation is that alcohol cannot be served in bars or restaurants after 1 am.

Utah's alcohol laws are largely influenced by 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. As a result, alcohol laws in the state have traditionally been strict. However, there have been several attempts to relax these laws, particularly in recent years, to make them more aligned with those of other states.

While the legal drinking age in Utah is 21, and ID is required to purchase alcohol, the state has specific laws regarding how alcohol is served in bars and restaurants. Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5% or lower can be sold in grocery and convenience stores. However, for beverages with a higher ABV, there are additional restrictions on where and when they can be served.

Bars and restaurants in Utah are allowed to serve alcohol from 10 am or 11:30 am until 1 am. After 1 am, alcohol sales are prohibited by law. This means that last call for alcohol is typically around 1 am, and bars must close by 2 am. It's important to note that these timings may vary slightly depending on the license held by the establishment.

Additionally, Utah has strict laws regarding the service of alcohol to intoxicated individuals. Bars and restaurants are prohibited from serving alcohol to anyone who appears to be intoxicated. There are also restrictions on certain types of drinks and promotions, such as "happy hour" discounts.

Utah also has some of the strictest DUI (driving under the influence) laws in the country, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.05%. This means that even a small amount of alcohol can put someone over the legal limit for driving. As a result, it is important for visitors and residents to be mindful of their consumption and plan alternative transportation methods if they plan to drink.

While the alcohol laws in Utah may seem confusing or restrictive to some, the state has been working towards modernizing and simplifying them. It's always a good idea to stay informed about the latest regulations to avoid any legal issues or misunderstandings when consuming alcohol in Utah.

Alcohol must be ordered with food in restaurants

Alcohol laws in Utah are some of the most restrictive in the United States. The state has a monopoly over the wholesale and retail distribution of some or all types of alcoholic beverages.

In Utah, alcohol must be ordered with food in restaurants. This is because establishments are classified as either restaurants, bars, or clubs, each with a different set of rules regarding alcohol.

At restaurants, alcoholic drinks can only be served with food. However, at breweries or any beer-only establishments, food is not required to order a beer. Restaurants require customers to order food along with their drinks, but the food and drinks do not need to be ordered at the same time. A simple plate of fries will do the trick!

Beer, liquor, and wine can be ordered in a restaurant from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. Taverns, breweries, and bars are allowed to sell alcohol during the same hours as restaurants, but they do not require patrons to order food. Last call for alcohol is generally 1 a.m., and bars must close by 2 a.m.

While Utah's alcohol laws might seem confusing or restrictive to visitors, they are not as much of a hassle as one might think. It's important to follow these laws to avoid legal trouble when visiting the state.

Frequently asked questions