Ogden, Utah: Buying Beer Late At Night

If you're planning a night out in Ogden, Utah, it's worth familiarising yourself with the state's liquor laws. While Utah is not a dry state, its alcohol laws are some of the most restrictive in the US. So, how late can you buy beer? Well, it depends on where you are. Bars and restaurants are open from 10 am to 1 am, and gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores sell beer during all hours of operation. However, state-run liquor stores, which sell beers over 5% ABV, often close as early as 7 pm and are always closed on Sundays and holidays.

Beer in bars and restaurants

Utah has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the United States. The state has a monopoly over the wholesaling and retailing of alcoholic beverages, controlling the sale of liquor through state-run outlets. However, recent changes have been made to modernise these laws and make it easier to purchase beer.

Bars and restaurants in Utah are typically open from 10 am to 1 am, seven days a week. Alcoholic drinks can be served from 11:30 am to 1 am, with last call at 1 am. However, heavy beer sales must stop at midnight.

On weekends and legal holidays, alcohol service may begin earlier, at 10:30 am.

Where Can You Buy Beer?

Beer can be purchased at bars, restaurants, breweries, taprooms, gas stations, convenience stores, grocery stores, and state liquor stores.

In Utah, you must be 21 or older to buy and consume alcohol. ID is required for anyone who appears to be under 21.

In restaurants, alcoholic drinks can only be served with food. However, food is not required when ordering beer at bars, breweries, or beer-only establishments.

Only liquor stores may sell heavy beer (over 5% ABV) to-go.

Open Container Laws

Open containers are illegal in Utah for drivers and passengers in motor vehicles. This does not apply to passengers of motorboats, taxis, or limousines.

Beer in grocery and convenience stores

Utah has strict laws regulating the sale of alcohol, and these laws have been subject to frequent changes in recent years. Beer is available in grocery and convenience stores, but there are some important restrictions to be aware of. Firstly, beer sold in these stores must not exceed 5% ABV (alcohol by volume) or 4.0% alcohol by weight. This restriction was increased from 4% ABV in 2019, which opened the door for a wider variety of beers to be sold in local stores. Beers with a higher ABV can only be purchased in state liquor stores or from the brewery itself.

Grocery and convenience stores are allowed to sell beer during all hours of operation, but they can only sell beer to customers aged 21 and above, and ID is always required. In addition, beer can only be sold in its original packaging, and it cannot be served on tap. The sale of alcohol in Utah is not permitted after 1:00 a.m. under any circumstances, so stores must stop selling beer at this time.

Although Utah's alcohol laws can be strict and are subject to frequent changes, it is not a dry state, and beer can be purchased in most places. The laws regarding beer sales in grocery and convenience stores are similar to those in other states, with the notable exception of the restriction on beer strength.

Beer in breweries and taprooms

Breweries and taprooms in Utah are open every day from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m., but most close at midnight at the latest. Sunday sales are permitted, and breweries with full-service licenses do not require the sale of food with the sale of beer.

Utah's beer laws have evolved, and the state has made it simpler to buy beer. The state has eased restrictions on alcohol, especially during the last decade, making it much easier for visitors to Utah to drink.

Breweries in Utah can fill growlers if the beer on tap is lower than 5%. These locations can sell heavy beer until midnight. Heavy beer, which has an ABV of more than 5%, can be purchased to-go at a Utah state liquor store or directly from the brewery.

Breweries and taprooms have different rules and regulations for the kind of beer they can sell and when. For example, draft beer of 5% ABV and lower can be served at bars, while beer with a higher ABV must be sold in cans or bottles.

Utah has some of the most fluid beer and alcohol laws in the country, and it can be challenging to pinpoint the exact laws and legal dos and don'ts of drinking in the state.

Beer in liquor stores

Utah has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the United States. The state has a monopoly over the retailing and wholesaling of alcohol, and alcohol laws are based on the philosophy of making alcoholic beverages available in a way that "reasonably satisfies the public demand" without promoting or encouraging consumption.

Beer with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5% or lower can be purchased in grocery stores, convenience stores, and gas stations. However, for beers with a higher ABV, you will need to visit a liquor store.

Utah state liquor stores are the only place to buy heavy beer to-go, and they can be found throughout the state. These stores have varying hours of operation, with some closing as early as 7 pm. They are also closed on Sundays and holidays.

In addition to liquor stores, breweries and taprooms sell heavy beer, but they are only allowed to sell until midnight.

Utah's complex alcohol laws have evolved over time, with recent changes making it easier to purchase beer. While the state has taken steps towards modernisation, some of its alcohol regulations remain dated.

Drinking laws in Utah

Drinking laws in the US state of Utah are some of the most restrictive in the country. The state has a long history of strict alcohol laws, largely influenced by the predominant religion, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which advises against the consumption of alcohol by its members. However, in recent years, Utah has been making efforts to modernise its liquor laws.

Age Restriction

Only adults of 21 years or older can buy or consume alcohol in Utah. This is in line with the legal drinking age across the US.

Where to Buy Alcohol

Beer, liquor, and wine can be purchased at state-run liquor stores, also known as Package Agencies, and licensed clubs and restaurants. Beer with an alcohol content of up to 5% ABV is available at grocery and convenience stores, as well as establishments with a "beer only" license, such as taverns and beer bars.

When to Buy Alcohol

State-run liquor stores are typically open from Monday to Saturday, with varying closing times between 7 pm and 10 pm. They are closed on Sundays and public holidays. However, some private distilleries and breweries may sell alcohol directly to consumers on Sundays and holidays.

Licensed bars, clubs, taverns, and similar establishments can sell alcohol from 10 am to 1 am. Restaurants with liquor licenses can sell alcohol from 11:30 am to 1 am, but alcohol must be ordered with food.

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limit

Utah has a strict BAC limit for driving under the influence. The limit is set at 0.05%, the lowest in the nation.

ID Requirements

A valid ID is required to purchase alcohol in Utah, and businesses can face penalties for selling or serving alcohol to minors. Accepted forms of ID include a valid US driver's license, a military identification card with a photo and date of birth, or an official state-issued identification card.

Smoking Restrictions

Utah's Indoor Clean Air Act prohibits smoking in areas accessible to the general public. However, designated smoking areas are available at the Salt Lake International Airport and some lodging facilities.

Marijuana Restrictions

Possession and use of marijuana for recreational purposes are illegal in Utah. It is only available for medical purposes with a proper medical card.

Frequently asked questions