Guide On Delivery Of Alcohol For Liquor Stores And Restaurants
The coronavirus pandemic has brought about changes in almost all sectors, and the alcohol sector is of no exemption. You may have realized that bars in your area have closed, and getting a drink is not as easy as before. It is now more straightforward and safer to buy alcohol and drink it at your house. For this reason, it’s essential to know the states where alcohol is now being sold this way and their distribution policies.
Unfortunately, the rules vary in the various states. Therefore, it is safest to contact your local restaurant to know whether they deliver alcohol or have to get it yourself. Below is comprehensive information on the delivery of alcohol in liquor stores and restaurants.
- Arizona
Since March 2020, Arizona has implemented that restaurants and liquor stores can have alcohol for sale and delivery orders. This means that restaurants and liquor stores will not lose their licenses if they sell alcohol through pickups, curbside service, and delivery. However, as they sell alcohol, they need to make sure that it is in sealed containers. The container can only be unsealed after the customer leaves.
- Connecticut
Governor Ned Lamont in Connecticut gave an executive order that allowed restaurants and bars to start selling alcohol. However, they are allowed to sell only sealed liquor. Additionally, the sale of cocktails that have been made in restaurants or other destinations is illegal.
- Iowa
Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa issued an executive order in March 2020, where he allowed liquor and wine to be sold in bars and restaurants. However, he insisted that they be sold in their original container, which was sold not to be opened. This rule does not include mixed drinks and applies to any business with a Class C liquor license. The governor mentioned that businesses affected by the situation are allowed to return the liquor to the wholesaler. Nevertheless, there are some conditions to meet to reach the return policy.
- Massachusetts
A bill was signed on 3rd April by Governor Charlie Baker in Massachusetts, allowing restaurants to sell alcohol for takeout and delivery. This rule applies only to the restaurants that are licensed to sell and deliver beer. Nevertheless, there are some restrictions to be followed. For instance, food must accompany alcohol purchases and deliveries. Additionally, there is a limit on quantity whereby a customer can only order 1.5 liters of wine in a day.
- New York
In New York, it was announced on 16th March that all licensed on-premises businesses could sell alcoholic beverages for both pickup and delivery. However, the alcohol sold should be accompanied with food. Additionally, this applies to mixed drinks, but they must all be in a closed container. The vehicle that does the deliveries is also one that is permitted by the authorities.
- British Columbia
In British Columbia, an executive was issued on 22nd March, allowing restaurants to deliver alcohol. However, one is allowed to buy alcohol if they are also purchasing another meal alongside it. There are also other restrictions on the delivery of alcohol.
The novel coronavirus is changing the way everything is done in the world. It is wise to brace yourself and get ready to move along with the changes such as those in the alcohol distribution center. Check out the rules of alcohol sale in your state as they are mentioned above.
