Liquor Laws in Utah: What you need to know
Written by: ERIN WEIST
At more than one point Utah has been known for its teetotaler position. The heavy religious influence in the state has been felt throughout its entire 160 year history. Even today Utah has some of the strictest laws in the nation around the sale of alcohol (including wine not being available in general stores, only at state liquor stores.) But do you know what the laws are around alcohol purchase or consumption? If you are planning a visit, or even if you live here, you may not know it all. Here is a break-down of a few:
ID is always required to confirm a consumer is the legal age of 21. Foreign visitors, don’t forget your passport which will confirm your age, otherwise you won’t be able to buy a drink.
Want to celebrate over the weekend? Just remember to buy your libations on Saturday as all state liquor stores are closed on Sundays.
Grocery and convenience stores are only allowed to sell drinks with an alcohol level of 5% or less, so anything stronger (including wine) will have to come from the liquor store.
Bars vs. restaurants: if you want to buy a drink in a restaurant you are required to purchase food. If you’re in a bar/tavern with a beer license you can purchase drinks only, without the requirement of buying food as well.
Beer on tap is only available up to the 5% alcohol limit as well. Other drinks in bottles have higher percentages, as do some take-away cans of beer.
While Arizona has the nation’s strictest DUI penalties, Utah has the strictest DUI limit at 0.05% Blood Alcohol Content. Every other state in the nation sets it at 0.08%. (https://wallethub.com/edu/dui-penalties-by-state/13549, https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/dui/blood-alcohol-level-chart/ )
State law prohibits consuming alcohol in public places. The same goes for public intoxication. Alcohol cannot be brought into or consumed in a public establishment, unless a license has been granted to the owners for that purpose. This includes community events as well. You’ll need to check with those in charge if they have been granted such a license.
Opened containers of alcohol are not allowed in any moving vehicle. So have your friend get rid of their drink before getting in the car, or you’ll be responsible.
This is an incomplete but general list of the liquor laws in Utah. There is a lot more to know if you want to get a license, including how many the state grants each year, but if you’re a general consumer that gives you an idea of things you should know. Laws are continually changing, relaxing, and advancing as society adjusts so if you’d like to see changes make sure you know your local legislators and get involved. In the meantime, have a cold one in my honor. Cheers.
For additional info:
https://abs.utah.gov/about-dabs/residents-visitors/
https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/frequently-asked-questions/drinking-in-utah/
https://www.utah.com/things-to-do/plan-your-trip/state-liquor-laws/
