Washington State has relatively relaxed and uniform laws when it comes to alcohol sales, with both retail and on-premise outlets allowed to operate under the same cut-off. These rules are governed by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) and codified in the Washington Administrative Code (WAC). Here’s a detailed look at when alcohol sales must stop.
Statewide Cut-Off: 2:00 AM
According to WAC 314-11-070, licensed premises — including bars, restaurants, and retail stores — are prohibited from selling or serving liquor (which includes beer and wine) between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m..
- This means the last legal sale time for alcohol is 2:00 AM.
- After 2:00 a.m., businesses must stop service, and patrons cannot purchase, serve, or consume alcohol on the premises.
- However, local jurisdictions (cities or counties) are allowed to impose stricter hours, meaning some places may close alcohol sales earlier.
Retail (Off-Premise) Sales
For off-premise alcohol sales — that is, beer, wine, or other liquor sold in grocery stores, convenience stores, or liquor shops — Washington law allows sales from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
- These hours apply every day, including weekends, under state law. Because the cutoff is statewide, most stores align with this schedule, but individual retailers may choose to close earlier based on business policy or local zoning.
On-Premise Sales (Bars, Restaurants, Taverns)
Bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol to be consumed on site follow a similar schedule:
- They may serve alcohol from 6:00 AM until 2:00 AM.
- After 2:00 AM, liquor must be cleared: no new drink sales are allowed, and consumption must stop in accordance with the license.
- Employees are allowed to have liquor on-premises after 2:00 AM only while performing their job duties, but not for general patron consumption
Delivery Considerations
- Alcohol delivery via licensed retailers is also regulated. According to WSLCB policies, beer may be delivered between 6:00 AM and 2:00 AM, in line with retail sale hours.
- Deliveries must comply strictly with these time limits — no drop-offs of alcohol past 2:00 AM.
Why These Rules Matter
- Public Safety: The 2:00 AM cut-off helps limit the potential for late-night intoxication and alcohol-related incidents.
- Uniformity: Having the same cut-off for both on- and off-premise sales (6 AM to 2 AM) gives businesses and customers clear, consistent expectations.
- Local Flexibility: While the state allows up to 2:00 AM, cities and counties can impose earlier closing times if needed to address local public safety or noise concerns.
Key Take-Aways
- Last sale time for alcohol in most of Washington State is 2:00 AM.
- This applies to both retail stores and bars/restaurants.
- Retail alcohol sales are allowed from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM, daily.
- Local governments can require earlier closing, so hours may vary slightly by city or county.
- Alcohol delivery must also respect the 6 AM–2 AM window.
