Utah Beer Buying Guide: What, Where, And How

If you're planning on buying beer in Utah, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, Utah has some of the strictest alcohol laws in the US, and these laws are subject to change over time. For instance, until November 2019, the alcohol limit for brewing was 3.2% ABV, but this was raised to 4% ABV or 5% ABV for beers sold in grocery and convenience stores.

Another thing to note is that Utah is considered a control state, meaning the state has a monopoly over the wholesale and retail distribution of alcoholic beverages. All wine and spirits must be purchased from state-run liquor stores, which are closed on Sundays and state and federal holidays. Beer with an alcohol content of 5% ABV or less can be purchased from grocery and convenience stores.

Additionally, Utah has strict DUI laws, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.05%, so it's important to be mindful of that when consuming alcohol.

When it comes to buying beer specifically, you can purchase it from taverns, breweries, bars, and restaurants. However, restaurants require customers to order food with their drinks. Bars and clubs are only open to those 21 and older, and last call for alcohol is generally 1 am, with bars closing by 2 am.

So, while it is possible to buy beer in Utah, it's important to be aware of the state's unique alcohol laws and regulations.

Where to buy beer in Utah

Utah has strict and complex liquor laws that can be confusing for visitors and residents alike. Here is a guide to where you can buy beer in Utah:

Grocery and Convenience Stores

Beer with an alcohol content of 5% ABV or less can be purchased in grocery and convenience stores in Utah. These stores sell beer every day of the week, including Sundays, during their normal operating hours.

Bars and Restaurants

Bars and restaurants in Utah can serve beer on tap, but only up to 5% ABV. They can also sell higher ABV beers in cans or bottles. Patrons must be 21 or older and have a valid ID to drink in bars. In restaurants, alcoholic drinks can only be served with food, but food is not required when ordering beer in breweries or beer-only establishments. Last call for alcohol is generally 1 am, and bars must close by 2 am.

Breweries and Taprooms

Breweries and taprooms in Utah are open every day and can sell beer on Sundays. They typically operate from 10 am to 1 am but may close earlier, depending on the location. Breweries can sell heavy beer (over 5% ABV) until midnight and fill growlers if the beer on tap is lower than 5% ABV.

Utah State Liquor Stores

Liquor stores in Utah are the only places to buy heavy beer to-go. They sell beer, wine, and liquor with no limit on quantity or ABV. There are around 40-50 liquor stores across the state, typically open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to anywhere between 5 pm and 10 pm. These stores are closed on Sundays and state and federal holidays.

Distilleries

Distilleries in Utah can sell their products directly to consumers 365 days a year. They are permitted to sell their liquor, including vodka, gin, bourbon, and cordials, even on Sundays and holidays when state-operated liquor stores are closed.

The legal drinking age

In Utah, you must be 21 or older to buy or consume alcohol. This is in line with the legal drinking age in the rest of the United States. However, Utah's alcohol laws are among the most restrictive in the country.

Utah's alcohol laws are influenced by the state's religious population. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to which 55% of Utah residents belong, advises against the consumption of alcohol.

Utah is one of 17 "control states", meaning the state has a monopoly over the wholesale and retail distribution of alcoholic beverages. All wine and spirits must be purchased from state-run liquor stores, which are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Beer with an alcohol content of 5% ABV or less can be purchased in grocery and convenience stores. However, restaurants with a liquor license require customers to order food with their drinks.

Utah also has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.05%.

Alcohol by volume (ABV)

Alcohol by volume, or ABV, is a standard measure for the amount of alcohol in a beverage and is used to determine where and when a beverage can be sold in Utah.

In Utah, beer with an ABV of 5% or less can be sold in grocery and convenience stores, as well as establishments with a "beer only" type of license, such as taverns and some restaurants. Beer with an ABV higher than 5% must be purchased from state-run liquor stores or directly from breweries.

Utah's ABV limit for beer sold in grocery and convenience stores was previously 3.2%, but this 86-year-old law was changed in November 2019. This change allowed for greater variety and stronger beer to be sold in these stores, which can now stock beer with up to a 5% ABV.

It's important to note that Utah has strict laws surrounding the sale and consumption of alcohol, and these laws can vary across cities and counties within the state. For example, some restaurants require food to be ordered with alcoholic drinks, while others do not. Additionally, state-run liquor stores are closed on Sundays, and there are restrictions on the types of drinks that can be served, such as no "happy hour" discounts.

Buying beer on Sundays

If you're looking to buy beer on a Sunday in Utah, there are a few things you need to know. Due to state regulations, purchasing beer in Utah can be a little different from other states, and there are some specific rules and restrictions, especially when it comes to Sunday sales. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process and ensure you can enjoy a cold one when you want to.

Firstly, it's important to understand the types of stores that sell beer in Utah. Beer above 4% ABV is considered 'heavy beer' and is only available at state-licensed liquor stores and some specialty beer stores. These stores have specific hours and days of operation, and their availability on Sundays can vary. State-run liquor stores are typically open on Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm, and some private specialty beer retailers may also be open during these hours. It's always a good idea to check the hours of the specific store you plan to visit, as they can vary.

When it comes to grocery and convenience stores, you can only purchase beer that is 3.2% ABV or lower, also known as 'light beer' or 'near beer'. These stores are allowed to sell beer on Sundays, but again, the hours may be restricted. Many stores start selling beer as early as 10 am or 11 am and continue until 1 am or 2 am the next day, including Sundays. However, some counties and cities have more restrictive laws, so it's essential to check the rules in your specific location.

To find a store that sells beer on Sundays, your best bet is to use online resources. You can visit the website of the Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (DABC) to find a list of state-run liquor stores and their hours. Additionally, there are websites and apps dedicated to helping you find beer retailers in Utah, which can be very useful for locating specialty beer stores that may have extended hours on Sundays.

In conclusion, buying beer on Sundays in Utah is possible, but it requires a bit of planning and knowledge of the state's unique alcohol laws. By understanding the different types of beer available at various retailers and their hours of operation, you can ensure you're able to purchase beer when you need it, even on a Sunday. So, whether you're stocking up for a big game or just enjoying a quiet drink at home, a little preparation will go a long way.

Drinking in public

Firstly, it is important to note that Utah's liquor laws are subject to change over time, so it is always a good idea to check the most recent legislation.

That being said, as of 2023, Utah has strict laws regulating the consumption of alcohol, and drinking in public is generally prohibited. However, there are some exceptions and specific circumstances under which drinking in public may be allowed.

For example, drinking in public may be permitted in certain licensed establishments, such as bars, taverns, breweries, nightclubs, cafes, bowling alleys, golf courses, and concert halls. These establishments are allowed to sell alcohol during specific hours, typically from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., and patrons are not required to order food with their drinks.

Additionally, Utah's liquor laws allow for drinking in public at special events and designated areas, such as national parks, sports arenas, and other licensed venues.

It is important to note that open containers of alcohol are generally not allowed in public spaces, and drinking in public parks or on the street is prohibited.

Utah also has strict laws against driving under the influence (DUI), with a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.05%, which is lower than the standard limit in most other states.

In summary, while drinking in public is generally prohibited in Utah, there are specific exceptions and circumstances under which it may be allowed, such as in licensed establishments and certain designated areas. However, it is always important to stay informed about the most recent changes to Utah's liquor laws and to drink responsibly and obey all relevant laws and regulations.

Frequently asked questions