What is the New York state law for serving alcohol?

Asked by: Prof. Dale Senger  |  Last update: July 9, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (39 votes)

Off-premises (liquor store or retailer) liquor and wine sales are prohibited between midnight and 8 AM, and Sundays between 10 PM and 10 AM. On-premises (bar or lounge) sales are prohibited on weekdays between 4 AM and 8 AM, and Sundays between 4 AM and 10 AM.

What is NYS law on selling alcohol?

In New York, for purposes of state law, there are only four hours Monday through Saturday in which alcohol may not be served: 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. On Sundays the limitation is six hours: 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. This was designed to accommodate both New York City nightlife and late-night workers statewide.

Do you have to be 21 to serve alcohol in New York?

The legal age to sell packaged liquor, pour alcohol or serve alcohol to customers is 18. Many businesses require alcohol servers to complete an approved alcohol training program and hold a valid certificate of completion from the New York State Liquor Authority (NYSLA).

What are the new alcohol laws in NY?

Governor Hochul signed two of those recommendations into law in October of 2023, while three more are included in this year's Enacted Budget: Alcohol To-Go – A 5-year extension will allow for the current “drinks to go” provision to continue through 2030, with those 5 years commencing from 2025.

Do I need a license to serve alcohol at an event in NY?

Businesses that cater events at unlicensed locations need a Caterer's Alcohol Permit to serve alcoholic beverages. This permit is for a specific event. It is issued by the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA). Food must be served at the catered event.

New laws in New York concerning alcohol sales

40 related questions found

What are the latest alcohol guidelines?

The guidance also recommends that if you drink more than 2 drinks a week, make sure you don't exceed 2 drinks on any day. The 2023 guidance recommends that people consider reducing their alcohol use because overwhelming evidence confirms that when it comes to drinking alcohol, less is better.

What is the ABC law 65 in NY?

§ 65-c. Unlawful possession of an alcoholic beverage with the intent to consume by persons under the age of 21 years. No person under the age of 21 years shall possess any alcoholic beverage with the intent to consume such beverage.

Can you drink under 21 with a parent in New York at a restaurant?

It is unlawful to serve or sell alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. Minors under the age of 16 are not permitted in establishments that serve alcohol unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

What are the blue laws in NY?

The NYS Alcoholic Beverage Control Law prohibits the issuance of a full liquor license for establishments on the same street or avenue and within two hundred feet of a building occupied exclusively as a school, church, synagogue or other place of worship.

What is the legal alcohol limit in NY?

05 percent is legal evidence that you are impaired, a BAC of . 08 percent or higher is evidence of intoxication, and a BAC of . 18 percent or more is evidence of aggravated driving while intoxicated.

When did drinking age change to 21?

Minimum legal drinking age laws

The MLDA in the United States is 21 years. This means that alcohol cannot be sold to people younger than 21. Before the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984, the MLDA could differ by state.

What time is the last call in New York?

The 4 a.m. time applies in New York City; clubs and bars may remain open after 4 a.m. without serving alcohol; they may start serving at 8 a.m. except on Sunday when sales begin at 10 a.m.. Last call is also 4 a.m. in Albany, Buffalo, and Saratoga Springs.

Can I drink in a restaurant with my parents?

In 29 states, someone under 21 may drink with their parent's permission if it's in a private residence or on private property. Six states allow someone under 21 to drink on private property without their parent's consent. Eight states allow underage people to drink with a parent's consent in public restaurants or bars.

What is the lowest drinking age in the world?

At 13, Burkina Faso is the country with the youngest age of alcohol consumption.

What states can you drink with your parents at 18?

With the exception of five states (Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, New Hampshire, and West Virginia), all states and Washington, D.C., allow underage consumption of alcohol under limited circumstances, such as in the presence of parents, for religious or medical purposes, or while in a class that requires tasting.

Can you serve alcohol before noon on Sunday in NY?

Sale of Alcoholic Beverages

Off-premises (liquor store or retailer) liquor and wine sales are prohibited between midnight and 8 AM, and Sundays between 10 PM and 10 AM. On-premises (bar or lounge) sales are prohibited on weekdays between 4 AM and 8 AM, and Sundays between 4 AM and 10 AM.

Which part of the body absorbs the most alcohol?

You absorb 20 per cent of alcohol into your bloodstream through your stomach and the rest into your bloodstream through your small intestine. Drinking a small amount of alcohol stimulates your appetite because it increases the flow of stomach juices.

Is BYOB legal in New York?

New York: BYOB is allowed for restaurants without a liquor license, but they cannot charge a corkage fee unless licensed. Restaurants with a liquor license may not offer BYOB.

What is the rule 60 in NY?

Code Rule 60

This program gives a credit to insured employers which: Are not in a recognized safety group with the New York State Insurance Fund, Have an experience rating under 1.30, and. Pay annual NYS workers' compensation premiums of at least $5,000.

What is the NY law 470?

Judiciary Law § 470: A person, regularly admitted to practice as an attorney and counsellor, in the courts of record of this state, whose office for the transaction of law business is within the state, may practice as such attorney or counsellor, although he resides in an adjoining state.

What is the local law 55 in NY?

Local Law 55 allows tenants to hold their landlords accountable. Tenants can either call 311 to get an inspection of their home, or they can request a referral from their doctor to initiate the inspection process if they have been diagnosed with moderate or severe persistent asthma.

What is the new drink rule?

Following the 1-2-3 rule in alcohol consumption can help mitigate health risks. It suggests one drink per hour, two drinks per day maximum, and three alcohol-free days a week. These measures promote responsible drinking and overall health.

What are the new guidelines for alcohol use?

For men—two drinks or less in a day. For women—one drink or less in a day.