Do Massachusetts alcohol laws differ from other States such as Texas alcohol laws? Massachusetts is known for its rich history, stunning coastlines, and iconic sports teams. However, when it comes to purchasing alcohol on Sundays, it can be a bit of a mystery.
If you’re a resident or visiting the Bay State and looking to buy alcohol on a Sunday, you may be wondering what time you can hit the liquor store or supermarket. The time you can buy beer in a bar or restaurant also needs to be explored.
Massachusetts has some unique alcohol laws, and this article will delve into the specifics of what time you can buy alcohol on Sundays and the history behind these regulations. So grab a drink (if it’s the right day and time, of course) and settle in for an informative and intriguing read.
Massachusetts alcohol laws: What Time can you buy Alcohol in MA on Sunday?
In Massachusetts, alcohol sale hours in Massachusetts grocery stores vary depending on the day of the week. You can purchase alcohol from Monday to Saturday between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. at a convenience/ grocery store or gas station but between 8 a.m. and 2 a.mat a bar or restaurant. On Sundays, alcohol sales start at 10 a.m. and end at 11 p.m. at a convenience store or from 10 a.m. until 12 a.m. at a bar or restaurant. All sales at a convenience store are for off-premise consumption only whereas home deliveries, growlers, and to-go orders are banned except for a few permitted stores where deliveries are made by permitted employees.
Massachusetts is one of the few states in the United States that regulates alcohol sales through state-run liquor stores and private liquor stores. These stores are licensed by the state and must comply with strict regulations. They are required to close their doors at 11 p.m. sharp, except for Sundays, when they can open two hours later.
One of the most interesting facts about alcohol sales in Massachusetts is the State’s blue laws. These laws were put in place in the 1600s to prohibit certain activities on Sundays, such as selling alcohol, playing games, and engaging in other forms of entertainment. Although these laws have been updated over time, Sunday alcohol sales remained restricted until 2003 when a law was passed allowing stores to open at 10 a.m. on Sundays.
It’s also worth noting that Massachusetts has some of the strictest alcohol laws in the country. In addition to the limited sales hours and alcohol cannot be consumed on the premises, the state has a legal drinking age of 21 and enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21.
Massachusetts also prohibits the sale of alcohol on Christmas Day and has limitations on the amount of alcohol that can be purchased at one time which may be similar to Ohio alcohol laws. Despite these restrictions, Massachusetts still boasts a thriving craft beer industry and is home to numerous breweries and distilleries.
What time can you buy alcohol in MA on Sunday?
In Massachusetts, the sale of alcohol is regulated by the State’s Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC). It regulates the business of manufacturing, importing, exporting, storing, transporting, and selling alcoholic beverages. The state has strict laws governing the sale of alcohol, including restrictions on the hours when alcohol can be sold. On Sundays, alcohol sales start later than on other days of the week.
Specifically, in Massachusetts, alcohol sales at convenience stores can start at 10 a.m. on Sundays, which is two hours later than the starting time on weekdays and Saturdays. This is different in other States such as California whose alcohol laws have similar alcohol sale times every day of the week. This applies to beer, wine, and spirits, and is true for state-run liquor stores, grocery stores, and gas stations. The sale of alcohol is allowed until 11 p.m. at both types of stores.
However, there is a slight difference in the sale of alcohol in bars and restaurants on Sundays. These establishments can serve alcohol from 10 a.m. until 12 a.m., or midnight. This means that if you want to purchase alcohol to consume on-site, such as at a bar or restaurant, you have an extra hour to do so on Sundays compared to purchasing alcohol for off-premise consumption.
It’s also worth noting that local municipalities in Massachusetts may have additional restrictions on the sale of alcohol, including limits on the number of liquor licenses issued or restrictions on where alcohol can be sold. It’s important to check with local authorities to ensure that you’re following all applicable laws and regulations related to alcohol sales and consumption.
What time can you buy alcohol in MA from Monday to Saturday?
On Monday to Saturday, the sale of alcohol in Massachusetts is permitted during certain hours, with a few exceptions. In general, you can purchase alcohol from a convenience store, grocery store, or gas station in Massachusetts between the hours of 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. from Monday to Saturday.
This applies to all types of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits. However, it’s important to note that some local municipalities may have additional restrictions on alcohol sales, so it’s always a good idea to check with local authorities to ensure you’re following the rules.
If you’re looking to purchase alcohol to consume on-site, such as at a bar or restaurant, the rules are a little different. Bars and restaurants in Massachusetts can serve alcohol between 8 a.m. and 2 a.m. the following day. This means that if you want to enjoy a drink at a local bar or restaurant, you have a longer window of time in which to do so compared to purchasing alcohol for off-premise consumption.
It’s also worth noting that while the ABCC sets these rules on alcohol sales, individual towns and cities may have their own local laws and regulations that impact alcohol sales. For example, some municipalities may prohibit the sale of alcohol on certain holidays or during certain events. It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities to ensure you’re following all applicable laws and regulations related to alcohol sales and consumption.
Related: https://hopstersbrew.com/time-they-stop-selling-alcohol-in-florida-laws/
Comparing the times you can buy alcohol on Sunday in different States
Different states have different alcohol laws. We have previously explored the New York alcohol laws and Ohio alcohol laws. The laws in most States are almost a replica of each other with a few States being more conservative or liberal.
| State | Capital | The time they sell Alcohol on Sunday |
| Alabama | Montgomery | 6 AM and 2 AM in grocery stores and liquor stores |
| Alaska | Juneau | 8 a.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning every day of the year except on election days |
| Arizona | Phoenix | 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. |
| Arkansas | Little Rock | Not allowed unless the local county/municipality has voted to allow it |
| California | Sacramento | 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day, including Sunday |
| Colorado | Denver | 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. |
| Connecticut | Hartford | 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. |
| Delaware | Dover | Noon until 6:00 p.m. and prohibited during polls or national elections |
| Florida | Tallahassee | 10 a.m. through 3 a.m on Sundays |
| Georgia | Atlanta | 12:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. for locally approved premises |
| Hawaii | Honolulu | 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. if in Hawai’i, Kaua’i, and Maui counties or until midnight in Honolulu county |
| Idaho | Boise | 10 a.m. and 1 a.m. with localities approval, otherwise it is banned |
| Illinois | Springfield | 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. on-premise and off-premise |
| Indiana | Indianapolis | 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. from March 4, 2018 |
| Iowa | Des Moines | 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. |
| Kansas | Topeka | 9 a.m to 11 p.m. and banned on Easter Sunday, Christmas, and Thanksgiving |
| Kentucky | Frankfort | Noon to midnight subject to regulation by the Kenton County Fiscal Court, Kentucky |
| Louisiana | Baton Rouge | 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. and prohibited in Lafayette Parish |
| Maine | Augusta | 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. the following day licensed by the Maine Department of Public Safety |
| Maryland | Annapolis | 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. for consumption on the premise and not at a bar or counter |
| Massachusetts | Boston | 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. for off-premise consumption |
| Michigan | Lansing | 7 a.m. on Sunday and 2 a.m. on Monday |
| Minnesota | Saint Paul | 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Mississippi | Jackson | 7:00 a.m. to Midnight on-premise but can be regulated through local ordinance, municipal or county governments |
| Missouri | Jefferson City | Between 6:00 AM and 1:30 AM on Sunday (beginning August 28, 2021) for an additional license fee |
| Montana | Helena | 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. like on other days |
| Nebraska | Lincoln | 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Monday |
| Nevada | Carson City | 24 hours every day, including Sunday |
| New Hampshire | Concord | 10:00 am to 5:00 pm but vary by location |
| New Jersey | Trenton | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on premises with a liquor license |
| New Mexico | Santa Fe | Noon until midnight with a permit and close at 11 p.m. in restaurants |
| New York | Albany | From noon until 9:00 p.m. at a liquor/wine store |
| North Carolina | Raleigh | From Noon to 2 a.m. from 2017 |
| North Dakota | Bismarck | 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. in bars and restaurants every day |
| Ohio | Columbus | 10:00 a.m. to midnight |
| Oklahoma | Oklahoma City | 6 a.m. to 2 a.m., seven days a week. |
| Oregon | Salem | 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day of the week for off-premise consumption |
| Pennsylvania | Harrisburg | 9 a.m. Sunday to 2 a.m. Monday with Sunday sales permit |
| Rhode Island | Providence | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a license to sell liquor |
| South Carolina | Columbia | No Sunday sales are permitted unless allowed by the county via referendum |
| South Dakota | Pierre | 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day of the week if no additional restrictions by county or municipal ordinances |
| Tennessee | Nashville | 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. but prohibited on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter |
| Texas | Austin | 10 a.m. to midnight at grocery stores or other retailers |
| Utah | Salt Lake City | 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m. |
| Vermont | Montpelier | Between 8 a.m. and 2 a.m. for on-premise and 6 a.m. to midnight for off-premise |
| Virginia | Richmond | 6:00 a.m. until 2:00 a.m. every day |
| Washington | Olympia | 6 a.m. until 2 a.m. every day from 1967 |
| West Virginia | Charleston | 6 a.m. until 2 a.m. every day |
| Wisconsin | Madison | 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. every day |
| Wyoming | Cheyenne | Between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. every day |
Is Massachusetts a dry State?
Massachusetts is not a dry state. While some states in the US have counties or towns where alcohol sales are prohibited altogether, Massachusetts has a few dry towns. However, the state does have strict regulations on the sale of alcohol, which can give the impression of being a dry state.
As previously mentioned, Massachusetts regulates alcohol sales through state-run liquor stores, convenience stores, bars, and restaurants. These stores are licensed by the state and must comply with strict regulations. They are required to close their doors at 11 p.m. sharp, except for Sundays, when they can open two hours later.
In addition to state-run liquor stores, Massachusetts also allows beer and wine sales in grocery stores and convenience stores. However, these stores are also subject to strict regulations, and the sale of alcohol is only allowed from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sundays. All sales must be for off-premise consumption only.
Thus, Massachusetts is not a dry state, but it does have strict regulations on the sale of alcohol. The state’s blue laws, which were put in place in the 1600s, have contributed to the perception of Massachusetts being a dry state. However, the state has since relaxed some of these laws, including allowing Sunday alcohol sales starting at 10 a.m.
Nevertheless, all alcohol sales must be made through state-run liquor stores or licensed package and convenience stores, and there are limitations on the hours and days of the week when alcohol can be purchased in grocery stores and convenience stores.
Which are the dry towns in Massachusetts?
Dry towns, also known as “dry cities” or “dry counties,” are areas where the sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited by law. This can include beer, wine, and spirits. Dry towns can be found in some US states, particularly in the South, Midwest, and Western regions, where local laws and traditions are more conservative. The following are the dry towns in Massachusetts:
- Alford
- Chilmark
- Dunstable
- Gosnold
- Hawley
- Montgomery
- Mount Washington
- West Hampton
The reasons for enacting dry laws can vary. Some towns may have a strong religious influence or may want to promote a family-friendly atmosphere by restricting alcohol sales. Others may have experienced issues with excessive drinking, such as increased crime or traffic accidents, and may believe that prohibiting alcohol sales can help reduce these problems.
However, dry towns are becoming increasingly rare in the US. In 2019, only 19 states still had dry counties, and most of these counties allowed the sale of beer and wine, even if they prohibited the sale of hard liquor. Some dry towns have also relaxed their laws over time, allowing alcohol sales in certain areas, such as restaurants or private clubs.
It’s also worth noting that while dry towns prohibit the sale of alcohol within their boundaries, it’s not illegal to possess or consume alcohol there. Residents of dry towns may travel to nearby areas to purchase alcohol, and some may even choose to homebrew their own beer or wine. Additionally, dry laws don’t apply to private events or gatherings, so alcohol can still be served at weddings or other celebrations.
Establishments to buy alcohol in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, alcohol can be purchased from a variety of establishments, including bars and restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, package and liquor stores, and breweries and taprooms.
Bars and restaurants in Massachusetts are licensed to serve alcohol on-premises. This means that you can enjoy a drink with your meal or at the bar, and the establishment will serve you. These establishments are subject to specific rules and regulations, including restrictions on the hours when they can serve alcohol, as well as licensing requirements.
Gas stations in Massachusetts are also allowed to sell alcohol for off-premises consumption. This means that you can purchase beer, wine, or spirits from a gas station, but you cannot consume it on the premises. Gas stations are subject to specific rules and regulations regarding the sale of alcohol, including age verification requirements and limits on the amount of alcohol that can be sold at one time.
In addition, grocery stores, package, and liquor stores, and breweries and taprooms are also licensed to sell alcohol in Massachusetts. These establishments are subject to specific rules and regulations, including restrictions on the hours when they can sell alcohol, age verification requirements, and limits on the amount of alcohol that can be sold at one time.
It’s worth noting that some municipalities in Massachusetts may have additional restrictions on the sale of alcohol, so it’s always a good idea to check with local authorities to ensure you’re following all applicable laws and regulations.
Related: What time do they stop selling alcohol in New York?
Delivery of alcoholic drinks in Massachusetts
Beer delivery is permitted in Massachusetts, but only a few licensed stores are allowed to offer this service. These stores must meet specific requirements to ensure that they are operating in compliance with state laws and regulations.
Delivery drivers for beer in Massachusetts must have a copy of their permit with them at all times when making deliveries. This permit verifies that they are authorized to deliver alcohol and that they have completed the necessary training and background checks required by the state. They deliveries may only be made by permitted employees.
In addition, customers who receive beer deliveries in Massachusetts must be 21 years of age or older and must be able to provide proof of age by signing for the delivery and verifying their age. This is typically done through an ID check, where the delivery driver will ask to see a valid photo ID to confirm the customer’s age.
It’s important to note that while beer delivery is permitted in Massachusetts, the rules and regulations surrounding alcohol delivery can be complex, and not all stores are authorized to offer this service. It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities or the store directly to ensure that you’re following all applicable laws and regulations when it comes to beer delivery in Massachusetts.
Buying beer in Growlers and other unsealed containers in MA
You can buy beer in growlers and other unsealed beer containers in Massachusetts, subject to certain restrictions. Growlers are typically reusable, glass or ceramic containers that are used to transport draft beer. They are a popular option for beer lovers who want to enjoy fresh, local beer at home.
In Massachusetts, prefilled and refilled growlers are allowed as long as they meet certain requirements. They must be empty and clean, with no residue or odors that could affect the flavor of the beer. In addition, they must be branded with the brewery’s logo or left blank, with no other branding or labels present.
It’s important to note that growlers in Massachusetts can only be filled with beer made by the brewery that is selling the growler. This means that you cannot fill a growler with beer from a different brewery or source. This rule is in place to help ensure the quality and safety of the beer, as well as to support local breweries and their products.
Other unsealed beer containers, such as crowlers (cans filled with draft beer), are also permitted in Massachusetts under certain conditions. These containers must meet the same cleanliness and branding requirements as growlers, and they can only be filled with beer made by the brewery that is selling the container. As with growlers, the goal of these regulations is to support local breweries and ensure the quality and safety of the beer.
Penalty for driving while drunk in MA
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Massachusetts and can result in severe penalties. If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher, you can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI), also known as operating under the influence (OUI).
The penalties for a first-time DUI/OUI offense in Massachusetts can include fines of up to $5,000, up to 2.5 years in jail, and up to a 1-year license suspension. You may also be required to attend an alcohol education program and install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle.
If you are convicted of a second or subsequent DUI/OUI offense in Massachusetts, the penalties become even more severe. You may face fines of up to $10,000, up to 5 years in jail, and a 2-year license suspension. You may also be required to attend an alcohol or drug education program and have an IID installed in your vehicle.
It’s important to note that DUI/OUI offenses in Massachusetts can also have long-term consequences, such as increased insurance rates, difficulty finding employment, and damage to your reputation. If you are facing DUI/OUI charges in Massachusetts, it’s essential to seek the advice of an experienced DUI defense attorney who can help you understand your options and protect your rights.
Penalty for under 21 years old driving while drunk in MA
In Massachusetts, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle with any amount of alcohol in their system. If a driver under 21 years old is caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02 or higher, they can face serious penalties.
The penalties for an underage DUI/OUI offense in Massachusetts can include fines of up to $5,000, a 180-day license suspension, and up to 3 years of probation. In addition, the offender may be required to attend an alcohol education program, complete community service, and perform other court-mandated requirements.
For a second or subsequent underage DUI/OUI offense, the penalties can become even more severe, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, and mandatory jail time.
It’s important to note that underage DUI/OUI offenses in Massachusetts can also have long-term consequences, such as difficulty obtaining employment or higher education opportunities, and increased insurance rates. If you or a loved one are facing underage DUI/OUI charges in Massachusetts, it’s important to seek the advice of an experienced DUI defense attorney who can help you understand your legal options and work to minimize the impact of these charges.
Conclusion
Massachusetts alcohol laws regulate the sale, distribution, and consumption of alcoholic beverages within the state. These laws include restrictions on the hours of alcohol sales, age limits for purchasing and consuming alcohol, and penalties for driving under the influence. The permitted time to buy alcohol in Massachusetts varies depending on the day and the type of establishment.
You can purchase alcohol from Monday to Saturday between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. at a convenience/grocery store or gas station, but only between 8 a.m. and 2 a.m. at a bar or restaurant. On Sundays, alcohol sales start at 10 a.m. and end at 11 p.m. at a convenience store, or from 10 a.m. until 12 a.m. at a bar or restaurant.
It’s important to note that there are several places where you can purchase alcohol in Massachusetts, including bars and restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, package and liquor stores, and breweries and taprooms.
While the state has relatively relaxed alcohol laws compared to other states, it’s essential to remember that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense with severe penalties in Massachusetts.
What is the legal minimum drinking age in Massachusetts?
The legal minimum drinking age in Massachusetts is 21 years old similar to all other U.S. States. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase or possess alcohol in Massachusetts, and there are strict penalties for underage drinking and driving under the influence.
Can minors drink beer in Massachusetts with parents?
In Massachusetts, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase or consume alcohol, regardless of whether or not they are with a parent or legal guardian. There is no exception for minors to drink beer or any other type of alcoholic beverage in the presence of their parents or legal guardians. Providing alcohol to minors, even if it is your own child, is also illegal in Massachusetts and can result in fines and other legal consequences.
Is it legal for persons less than 21 years old to transport beer in MA?
It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to transport alcohol in Massachusetts unless (a) accompanied by a parent or guardian; or (b) if for those between 18-21 and are transporting alcohol as part of their job.
Sources
https://www.mass.gov/doc/faqs-english/download
https://www.wbur.org/news/2014/10/26/sunday-blue-laws-change
https://hopstersbrew.com/time-stop-selling-alcohol-in-georgia-beer-laws/
