Utah is known for its strict alcohol laws — and when it comes to beer, the rules are no exception. Whether you’re shopping for a six-pack at a grocery store or sipping a brew at a bar, knowing when beer sales cut off is key. Here’s a breakdown of Utah’s beer sale hours and how they work in different kinds of places.
Different Types of Beer — Different Rules
First, it’s important to distinguish low-point beer and full-strength beer in Utah:
- Low-point beer (up to 5% ABV) is sold in grocery stores, convenience stores, and locations with a “beer only” license.
- Higher-alcohol (full-strength) beer — above 5% ABV — can be bought only in state-run liquor stores (licensed by DABS).
Off-Premise Beer Sales (To-Go)
Grocery Stores and Convenience Stores
- These stores can sell low-point beer up to a cutoff of 1:00 a.m. every day.
- There are no statewide restrictions preventing Sunday sales of low-point beer in these stores, as long as they operate during their usual business hours.
State Liquor Stores (DABS)
- For stronger beer, you must go to Utah’s state-run liquor stores, which have stricter hours.
- According to administrative rules, most state liquor stores cannot stay open past 10:00 p.m..
- These liquor stores are closed on Sundays and on certain state holidays.
On-Premise Beer Sales (Bars, Restaurants, Taverns)
If you’re at a bar, restaurant, or tavern, the beer-sales limit is slightly different:
- Bars/taverns (without a full-service restaurant license): they can serve beer starting at 10:00 a.m. and must stop by 1:00 a.m. under Utah law.
- Restaurants with full liquor licenses: they typically begin serving beer at 11:30 a.m. (or 10:30 a.m. on weekends and legal holidays, when allowed) and must stop by 1:00 a.m.
- According to Utah Code, once on-premise sales stop, patrons have a grace period: they may finish a single drink (including beer) but no new drinks can be sold.
Why These Restrictions Exist
- Control State System: Utah uses a control-state model for part of its alcohol distribution. The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services (DABS) regulates and runs the state liquor stores.
- Lower ABV in Everyday Stores: By limiting grocery/convenience-store beer to 5% ABV, Utah maintains a stricter control over everyday alcohol access.
- Cultural & Public Safety Considerations: The state’s regulatory structure reflects both public health concerns and cultural values.
Key Take-Aways
- In stores (grocery, convenience): beer sales stop at 1:00 a.m. for low-point beer.
- State liquor stores (for high-alcohol beer): typically close by 10:00 p.m., and are closed on Sundays.
- At bars or taverns: you can drink beer until 1:00 a.m.
- In restaurants: you must order food along with your beer, and service ends by 1:00 a.m., though there’s a grace period to finish up.
