Beer In A Bag: Drinking Laws In Washington State

Drinking in public is prohibited in Washington state, and this includes drinking beer from a bag. The state's open container law prohibits the opening of packages containing liquor or the consumption of liquor in a public place. This means that it is illegal to possess an open container of beer or alcohol in public places, such as on a public sidewalk or the front steps of an apartment building. The law also applies to drivers and passengers in a vehicle, and any open container must be stored in the trunk or the back of the car. While some states allow exceptions for party buses, limos, and RVs, it is important to be aware of and comply with the local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public places.

Drinking beer in public is illegal in Washington

The open container law in Washington is designed to discourage drinking while driving, but it also applies to anyone consuming alcohol in a public place. This includes public sidewalks, parks, and even the front steps of your apartment building. The law is enforced by the police, who may give you a warning or issue a fine if you are caught drinking in public.

It is important to note that the definition of "public place" can vary and may include some areas that you might not expect. For example, a licensed bar or restaurant is generally considered a public place, but there are exceptions for certain types of premises with a specific license. It's always best to check the local laws and regulations before consuming alcohol in any public place.

The open container law also applies to marijuana, which is illegal to consume in public in Washington. This includes any form of cannabis, such as seeds, leaves, stems, or buds, and it is an infraction to drive while consuming cannabis. The law is specific to Washington and may differ from other states' regulations.

To drink beer legally in Washington, it is necessary to do so in a private residence or a licensed establishment. While it may be tempting to enjoy a cold beer in a public park or while walking down the street, it is important to respect the law and refrain from drinking in public to avoid any legal consequences.

Drinking in public can result in a fine or arrest

Drinking in public is illegal in Washington state. The Revised Code of Washington states that "no person shall open the package containing liquor or consume liquor in a public place". This means that you cannot drink alcohol in public places, including on the street, in parks, or on the front steps of your apartment building. The same rules apply to marijuana.

The law is in place to discourage drinking while driving, and it is particularly important to note that it applies to both drivers and passengers in a vehicle. An open container is defined as any vessel containing alcohol with a broken seal or with liquid partially removed, and it is illegal to possess one in a vehicle unless it is stored in the trunk or the bed of a truck, out of reach from the driver's seat.

It is important to note that local laws in Washington may be stricter than state laws, and open container laws can vary by county, city, and municipality. Always check the latest information for your specific location.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the brown bag around store-bought liquor does not provide any protection from criminal charges when drinking in public. The belief that it might disguise the contents as non-alcoholic is a myth, and you can be arrested for even opening the bottle in public.

Open containers are not allowed in public in Washington

Open container laws are in place in Washington to discourage drinking while driving. However, these laws also apply to public places, and consumption of alcohol in public is prohibited in the state. This means that drinking beer in a bag in public is not allowed in Washington.

Washington's open container law defines an open container as any vessel containing alcohol with a broken seal or with liquid partially removed. This includes flasks or partially drunk bottles. The law applies to both alcoholic beverages and marijuana, which is also considered an open container if consumed in any form while driving.

It is important to note that open containers cannot be stored in the glove box of a car in Washington, unlike in some other states. Instead, they must be stored in the trunk or the bed of a truck, or in the very back of the car, out of reach of the driver's seat. Party buses, limos, RVs, and campers are exempt from this rule, as long as alcohol is consumed in the vehicle's living space and not in the cabin.

While it is illegal to drink in public in Washington, there are some exceptions. The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board offers a $10 daily permit that allows for liquor consumption at invitation-only events or gatherings in public places. However, generally, it is best to leave the alcohol at home when planning to spend time in public places in Washington.

Alcohol servers in Washington must be trained and certified

In Washington, it is illegal to consume alcohol in public. The state's liquor laws prohibit individuals from opening or consuming alcohol in public places, and violators may be subject to legal consequences.

For those interested in serving alcohol in Washington, there are specific requirements that must be met. Alcohol servers in the state are mandated to undergo training and obtain specific permits. Here is an overview of the process:

Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST)

Alcohol servers in Washington are required by law to complete a Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) course. This training is provided by third-party, private course providers certified by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB). The course is available online or in a classroom setting, and it covers essential knowledge for safe and legal alcohol service.

Class 12 and Class 13 Permits

After successfully completing the MAST course and exam, individuals will receive either a Class 12 or Class 13 permit, depending on their age. Those who are 21 or older will receive a Class 12 Mixologist permit, while those between the ages of 18 and 20 will be granted a Class 13 Servers permit.

The Class 12 permit is intended for alcohol servers, managers, bartenders, and employees conducting tastings. It allows holders to manage a licensed establishment, sell, mix, or draw alcohol, and supervise Class 13 permit holders.

On the other hand, the Class 13 permit is for servers under 21 years of age. Holders of this permit can open beer or wine, pour drinks, and deliver alcohol to customers. However, they are not authorised to mix drinks or draw beer or wine from a tap.

Permit Requirements and Validity

It is important to note that MAST permits are non-renewable and valid for five years. Alcohol servers must have their permits readily available for inspection, along with a valid form of identification, when performing duties related to the sale, service, or handling of alcohol. Failure to possess the required MAST permit within the allotted timeline can result in criminal citations, fines, or even imprisonment.

Compliance and Legal Responsibilities

The MAST training and permit system is designed to ensure compliance with Washington's liquor laws and promote responsible alcohol service. Alcohol servers and establishments can face legal consequences for negligent serving procedures, including serving minors or intoxicated individuals. As such, it is crucial for servers to be vigilant in adhering to the training they receive and upholding the state's regulations regarding alcohol service.

Alcohol laws vary across the state of Washington

> "every person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a class III civil infraction under chapter 7.80 RCW" - RCW 66.44.100

The law also applies to marijuana. This means that you cannot consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive with marijuana in an unmarked container.

While the law prohibits drinking in public, there are some exceptions. For example, party buses and limos that serve alcohol are licensed to do so, as long as they receive payment. RVs and campers are also exempt from the open container laws, as long as the drinking occurs in the vehicle's living space and not in the cabin.

In addition to the laws around public consumption, Washington has strict laws around the sale and service of alcohol. Alcohol servers in Washington must take a state-approved Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) course and hold a Class 12 or 13 permit to serve alcohol for on-premises consumption. The legal drinking age in Washington is 21 years old, and it is illegal for anyone under this age to purchase or consume alcohol.

Frequently asked questions