What Time do they Stop Selling Alcohol in Georgia? Alcohol has been a part of human culture for centuries, and it continues to be a prevalent aspect of modern society. From social gatherings to celebrations, alcohol is often at the center of many events. However, while alcohol can be enjoyed in moderation, it can also have serious consequences when consumed excessively or irresponsibly.
In this article, we will explore the topic of alcohol sales restrictions in Georgia and the various factors that influence these regulations. We will delve into the history of alcohol laws in Georgia, the impact of these laws on public health and safety, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of these restrictions.
Additionally, we will discuss the various ways in which individuals can make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption and how to promote responsible drinking habits within their communities. So, whether you’re a local Georgian, a visitor, or simply interested in the topic, read on to discover the various aspects of alcohol regulations in Georgia. You can compare Georgia with Florida alcohol laws as well as alcohol laws from different States to understand the different States’ laws.
It’s worth noting that some counties or cities may have additional restrictions or more stringent laws, so it’s always a good idea to check local regulations to confirm the specific rules for the area you’re in.
What Time Do They Stop Selling Alcohol in Georgia?
In Georgia, the laws regarding the sale of alcohol vary depending on the day of the week. From Monday to Saturday, the sale of alcohol for off-premise consumption is prohibited between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. and between the hours of 11:45 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Sundays. For on-premise consumption, both bars and restaurants are able to sell alcohol between the hours of 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. from Monday to Saturday.
However, these laws can vary by county and municipality, so it’s always a good idea to check with local regulations to confirm the specific rules for the area you’re in.
Georgia has a few dry counties where the sale of alcohol is prohibited. There are five entirely dry counties in Georgia: Baker, Bleckley, Butts, Early, and Taliaferro. In these counties, the sale, distribution, and possession of alcohol are illegal.
However, it’s important to note that even in some of the counties where alcohol sales are legal, certain municipalities or areas within those counties may still be dry or have specific alcohol sales restrictions. It’s always a good idea to check local regulations to confirm the specific rules for the area you’re in.
Buying beer on Sunday in Georgia
You can buy beer on Sundays in Georgia between 12:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. The Georgia Alcohol Code was updated in 2018 to allow for the sale of alcohol on Sundays, including beer, wine, and spirits.
However, it’s important to note that while Sunday sales are now allowed, local municipalities may still have their own regulations regarding alcohol sales, such as zoning laws that restrict the location of liquor stores or bars.
Some Georgian counties do not allow alcohol sales at any time on Sundays. Additionally, the sale of alcohol is prohibited during certain hours of the day, so it’s always a good idea to check local regulations to confirm the specific rules for the area you’re in.
When do bars and restaurants stop selling alcohol in Georgia?
The closing time for bars in Georgia varies depending on the local regulations of each city or county. In general, bars and restaurants in Georgia are allowed to stay open until 2:00 a.m. on weekdays and weekends. However, some municipalities have their own regulations that require bars to close earlier or limit the hours of alcohol sales.
For example, in the city of Atlanta, bars and restaurants must stop serving alcohol at 2:30 a.m. and close by 3:00 a.m. on weekdays and weekends. Other cities, such as Savannah and Athens, have more relaxed regulations that allow bars to stay open until 3:00 a.m. on weekends.
It’s also worth noting that some areas in Georgia may have “last call” regulations, which require bars to stop serving alcohol a certain amount of time before closing time.
For example, in Athens-Clarke County, bars must stop serving alcohol at 2:45 a.m. on weekends, even though they are allowed to stay open until 3:00 a.m. Additionally, some municipalities may have temporary restrictions on alcohol sales during certain events or holidays, so it’s always a good idea to check local regulations to confirm the specific rules for the area you’re in. You can compare it with Virginia alcohol laws to ensure you enjoy your travels.
Is Georgia a dry state?
Georgia is not a completely dry state, but it does have some dry counties where the sale, distribution, and possession of alcohol are prohibited. There are five dry counties in Georgia: Baker, Bleckley, Butts, Early, and Taliaferro. In these counties, no alcohol sales are allowed, and it is also illegal to possess alcohol, even if it was purchased outside of the county.
Despite the presence of dry counties, the majority of Georgia is not dry, and alcohol sales are legal in most areas. However, even in counties where alcohol sales are legal, there are still various regulations in place to promote responsible drinking and reduce public harm.
For example, Georgia has a statewide ban on selling alcohol to anyone under the age of 21, and the sale of alcohol is prohibited during certain hours of the day. Additionally, local municipalities may have their own regulations regarding alcohol sales, such as zoning laws that restrict the location of liquor stores or bars. Alcohol sale restrictions are different in other states with New Mexico’s alcohol laws making the State a wet State.
How have the liquor laws changed in the counties?
Georgia had 159 counties. The dry Counties in Georgia in 2014 were:
- Bleckley County
- Bulloch County
- Butts County
- Coweta County
- Decatur County
- Effingham County
- Hart County
- Lumpkin County
- Murray County
- Union County
- Upson County
- White County
However, since then, many of these counties have become “wet” or allowed the sale of alcohol through various means. For example, in 2016, Effingham County held a referendum that allowed the sale of packaged alcohol, and in 2018, Butts County also passed a referendum that allowed for the sale of packaged alcohol on Sundays.
Regarding Bulloch County, which is home to the city of Statesboro and Georgia Southern University, it has a somewhat complicated alcohol sales history. While the county was historically dry, the city of Statesboro voted to become wet in the 1990s.
However, in 2011, a new law was passed that prohibited the sale of alcohol outside of city limits in Bulloch County, effectively making the county dry again. This law was repealed in 2017, allowing for the sale of alcohol throughout the county.
Overall, many of the counties that were once dry in Georgia have since allowed for the sale of alcohol through various means, such as referendums or legislative changes.
Related: https://hopstersbrew.com/time-they-stop-selling-alcohol-in-new-york-laws/
Places you can buy beer in Georgia
You can buy beer for on-premise or off-premise consumption in Georgia. The places you can buy beer in Georgia depend on the county laws. Thus you can buy beer in Georgia at a variety of retail locations, including:
- Bars and restaurants
- Breweries and taprooms
- Gas stations
- Grocery stores
- Package and liquor stores
However, it’s important to note that local regulations may restrict the sale of beer in certain areas or at certain times. For example, some municipalities have zoning laws that limit the location of liquor stores or prohibit the sale of alcohol near schools or places of worship.
In addition, Georgia law prohibits the sale of beer to anyone under the age of 21. It is also illegal to sell beer during certain hours of the day, such as between 11:45 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on Sundays. It’s always a good idea to check local regulations to confirm the specific rules for the area you’re in.
Buying Beer in Bars and restaurants
Bars and restaurants in Georgia are allowed to sell beer for on-premises consumption from 9.00 a.m until 2:00 a.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, while on Sundays, they can serve alcohol from 11 a.m. until 11:30 p.m although some municipalities may have their own regulations that require earlier closing times.
In order to sell beer for on-premises consumption, bars and restaurants in Georgia are required to have a valid alcohol license, which is issued by the Georgia Department of Revenue.
In addition to selling beer for on-premises consumption, many bars and restaurants in Georgia also offer beer in growlers, which are reusable containers that can be filled with draft beer and taken off-premises. However, there are some restrictions on the sale of growlers.
For example, bars and restaurants can only sell beer in growlers if they have a valid manufacturer’s license or a brewpub license, and they can only sell up to 288 ounces (or two gallons) of beer per person per day.
When it comes to the age limit for purchasing beer in bars and restaurants, the legal age in Georgia is 21 years old. It is illegal to sell beer to anyone under the age of 21, and establishments that serve alcohol are required to check identification to verify that customers are of legal drinking age.
Buying beer in Gas stations and convenience stores
In Georgia, gas stations and convenience stores are allowed to sell beer for off-premises consumption, meaning that customers can purchase beer to take with them and consume elsewhere.
The opening time for beer sales in gas stations and convenience stores is 8 a.m. on weekdays and 12:30 p.m. on Sundays and closing time in Georgia is 11:45 p.m. from Monday to Saturday and 12:30 p.m. on Sundays, although some municipalities may have their own regulations that require earlier closing times.
Unlike bars and restaurants, gas stations and convenience stores in Georgia are not allowed to sell beer in growlers. They can only sell pre-packaged beer that is sold in sealed containers, such as cans or bottles.
Additionally, gas stations and convenience stores are not allowed to sell beer to anyone under the age of 21. Like all other establishments that sell beer in Georgia, gas stations and convenience stores are required to check identification to verify that customers are of legal drinking age before making a sale.
In order to sell beer, gas stations and convenience stores in Georgia are required to have a valid alcohol license, which is issued by the Georgia Department of Revenue. These licenses are typically obtained through the local government, and businesses that sell alcohol are subject to regular inspections and compliance checks by law enforcement officials to ensure that they are following all relevant regulations.
Buying beer in Grocery Stores
In Georgia, grocery stores are allowed to sell beer for off-premises consumption, although the sale of wine and liquor is only allowed in designated liquor stores.
The grocery stores can start selling beer from 8 a.m. on Monday to Saturday and 12:30 p.m. on Sundays. The closing time for beer sales in grocery stores in Georgia is 11:45 p.m. from Monday to Saturday and 11:30 p.m. on Sundays, although some municipalities may have their own regulations that require earlier closing times.
Grocery stores in Georgia are not allowed to sell beer in growlers. They can only sell pre-packaged beer that is sold in sealed containers, such as cans or bottles.
Additionally, grocery stores are not allowed to sell beer to anyone under the age of 21. Like all other establishments that sell beer in Georgia, grocery stores are required to check identification to verify that customers are of legal drinking age before making a sale.
In order to sell beer, grocery stores in Georgia are required to have a valid alcohol license, which is issued by the Georgia Department of Revenue. These licenses are typically obtained through the local government, and businesses that sell alcohol are subject to regular inspections and compliance checks by law enforcement officials to ensure that they are following all relevant regulations.
Buying beer in Breweries and taprooms
In Georgia, breweries and taprooms are allowed to sell beer for on-premises consumption as well as for off-premises consumption in growlers. The opening and closing times for breweries and taprooms in Georgia vary depending on local regulations.
In general, these establishments are allowed to operate from 8 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and 12:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, although some municipalities may have their own regulations that allow them to operate later.
Customers who visit breweries and taprooms in Georgia are allowed to purchase beer in growlers, which are reusable containers that can be filled with draft beer and taken off-premises.
Breweries and taprooms are allowed to fill and refill growlers as long as they have a valid brewpub license or a manufacturer’s license, and they are subject to certain restrictions on the sale of growlers. For example, breweries and taprooms can only sell up to 288 ounces (or two gallons) of beer per person per day.
When it comes to the age limit for purchasing beer in breweries and taprooms in Georgia, the legal age is 21 years old. It is illegal to sell beer to anyone under the age of 21, and establishments that serve alcohol are required to check identification to verify that customers are of legal drinking age.
In order to sell beer, breweries and taprooms in Georgia are required to have a valid alcohol license, which is issued by the Georgia Department of Revenue. These licenses are typically obtained through the local government, and businesses that sell alcohol are subject to regular inspections and compliance checks by law enforcement officials to ensure that they are following all relevant regulations.
Fine for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Georgia
The fine for DUI in Georgia can vary depending on the circumstances of the offense. In addition to fines, other penalties for a DUI conviction in Georgia may include jail time, license suspension, community service, and mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs.
For a first-time DUI offense in Georgia, the fine can range from $300 to $1,000. The amount of the fine can increase for subsequent offenses, and a third DUI conviction within 10 years can result in fines up to $5,000. In addition to fines, a DUI conviction in Georgia can result in a license suspension of up to 12 months, mandatory community service, and possible jail time of up to one year.
It is important to note that a DUI conviction in Georgia can also result in long-term consequences such as higher insurance rates and difficulty obtaining employment in certain fields.
Additionally, a DUI conviction can remain on a person’s criminal record for the rest of their life, which can impact future opportunities and legal proceedings. Therefore, it is important for individuals to avoid driving under the influence and to seek legal counsel if facing DUI charges in Georgia.
Penalty for Drinking if you are under 21 years old
In Georgia, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol. The legal limit for those under 21 is 0.02% blood alcohol concentration (BAC). The penalty for drinking if you are under 21 years old can include fines, community service, and license suspension.
A first offense for underage drinking in Georgia can result in a fine of up to $300, as well as community service and mandatory completion of an alcohol education program. A second offense can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 12 months of probation. A third offense can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and up to 12 months of probation.
In addition to fines and community service, a conviction for underage drinking in Georgia can result in the suspension of the offender’s driver’s license for up to six months for a first offense, up to 12 months for a second offense, and up to 24 months for a third offense.
It is important for individuals under the age of 21 to understand the serious consequences of drinking in Georgia and to avoid the use of alcohol until they are of legal age.
DUI for those under 21s
The penalties for DUI are based on the age of the offender. There are penalties for those under 15 years and those who are 16 to 20 years.
For 16 to 20 years, DUI penalties are as follows for the first offence:
- Suspended license
- 6 months for a BAC lower than 0.08%
- 1 year for a BAC of 0.08% or higher
- The offender must pay $210 to have the license returned
- DUI program at the expense of the offender
For minors who are 15 years old and younger the first-time offense has the following penalties:
- Suspended license until 17 years old
- Payment of $210 to have the license returned
- DUI program at the expense of the offender
Any other DUIs offense within 5 years after you are charged with the first offense leads to more harsh penalties.
Summary: Georgia’s alcohol laws
Georgia’s beer and alcohol laws in 2023 permit the sale of beer and wine in grocery stores and convenience stores for off-premises consumption. Liquor can only be sold in designated liquor stores. The legal age for purchasing beer and other alcoholic beverages in Georgia is 21 years old. All establishments selling beer and other alcoholic beverages are required to check identification to verify that customers are of legal drinking age.
Bars and restaurants are allowed to sell alcoholic beverages between 8 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. on Monday to Saturday, and from 12:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Sundays. Breweries and taprooms are allowed to sell beer for on-premises consumption as well as for off-premises consumption in growlers, subject to certain restrictions.
Georgia has 159 counties, and each county has the option to be “wet” or “dry.” As of 2023, there are 155 “wet” counties in Georgia, meaning that the sale of alcohol is legal in most counties. However, some municipalities within these counties may have their own regulations that differ from the county’s regulations, so it is important to check local laws before purchasing or consuming alcohol.
Overall, Georgia’s beer and alcohol laws in 2023 are regulated by the Georgia Department of Revenue and enforced by law enforcement officials. Businesses that sell alcohol are required to obtain valid alcohol licenses and are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with regulations.
Sources
https://www.reference.com/world-view/list-dry-counties-georgia-aef529ae085cbc43
https://www.hallcounty.org/183/Selling-Serving-Alcohol
https://hopstersbrew.com/time-they-stop-selling-alcohol-in-new-york-laws/
https://hopstersbrew.com/time-they-stop-selling-alcohol-in-california-laws/
https://hopstersbrew.com/massachusetts-alcohol-laws-buy-alcohol-ma-sunday/
