New York is known as the city that never sleeps, but when it comes to buying alcohol, there are limits to its vibrant nightlife. The question on many people’s minds is: what time do they stop selling alcohol in New York?
While some may think the answer is straightforward, the truth is that it varies depending on the location, day of the week, and even the type of alcohol being sold. In a city where bars and liquor stores are ubiquitous, the rules and regulations around alcohol sales can be complex and ever-changing.
The sale of alcohol for on-premise and off-premise consumption varies from State to State. We have previously asked ourselves, can you buy wine on Sunday in Ohio? Let’s check for New York.
Join us as we dive into the curious and sometimes surprising world of alcohol sales in New York.
What Time do they Stop Selling Alcohol in New York?
Generally, Off-premises (retailer liquor stores and wine shops) are permitted to sell alcohol until 12 a.m. from Monday to Saturday, and until 12 a.m. on Sundays but can only open for sale at 8 a.m. from Monday to Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sunday. However, there are some exceptions, such as stores that have a special permit to sell alcohol until midnight on Saturdays and Sundays. On-premises (bar or lounge) sales are allowed from Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. and between 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. on Sunday.
In New York City, the sale of alcohol is regulated by the State Liquor Authority, and the closing time varies depending on the type of establishment and the day of the week. New York State law prohibits the sale of alcohol between midnight and 8 a.m., and until 9 a.m. on Sundays for off-premise and for on-premises between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m., and Sundays between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m.
Additionally, some counties or municipalities may have their own restrictions on alcohol sales, such as limiting the hours or days that alcohol can be sold. It’s always a good idea to check with the establishment or local authorities to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
Bars and restaurants are subject to different regulations. They can serve alcohol until 4 a.m., seven days a week, but they must stop selling it at 2 a.m. This means customers have until 4 a.m. to finish their drinks, but they cannot order more alcohol after 2 a.m. Additionally, establishments with a cabaret license or permit to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption may be subject to earlier closing times.
It’s worth noting that in New York State, the legal drinking age is 21, and it is illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under that age. Furthermore, alcohol sales are prohibited on certain holidays, including Christmas Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Easter Sunday. Finally, local governments may have their own restrictions on alcohol sales, so it’s always a good idea to check with the establishment or the local authorities if you’re unsure about the rules.
Related: https://hopstersbrew.com/time-they-stop-selling-alcohol-in-florida-laws/
What time can you buy alcohol in New York State?
In New York State, the sale of alcohol is generally permitted from 8 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Sundays for off-premise consumption and on-premises (bar or lounge) sales are allowed from Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. and between 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. on Sunday. However, there are some exceptions to these hours, as local governments can set their own rules and restrictions on alcohol sales.
Additionally, some establishments, such as bars and restaurants, may have different hours for serving alcohol compared to retail stores. It’s always a good idea to check with the establishment or local authorities to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
Can you buy beer on Sunday in New York?
You can buy beer on Sunday in New York State. However, there are some restrictions on the hours when alcohol can be sold, including beer. On Sundays, the sale of beer is generally permitted from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. for off-premise consumption and 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. for on-premise consumption.
This means that you can purchase beer from most retail stores and supermarkets during those hours. However, it’s worth noting that some counties or municipalities may have their own restrictions on alcohol sales, so it’s always a good idea to check with the establishment or local authorities to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
It’s also worth noting that while you can purchase beer on Sundays in New York, the state does have laws and regulations in place to control the sale and consumption of alcohol. For example, the legal drinking age in New York is 21, and it is illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under that age.
Additionally, there are limits on the amount of alcohol that can be purchased at one time, as well as restrictions on the hours when alcohol can be sold. The State Liquor Authority is responsible for enforcing these regulations and ensuring that businesses are complying with the relevant laws.
Overall, while you can buy beer on Sunday in New York State, it’s important to be aware of the restrictions on alcohol sales and consumption. By following these regulations and drinking responsibly, you can enjoy all that New York’s vibrant beer and nightlife scene has to offer.
What time is the last call for alcohol in New York?
New York State does not have a statewide “last call” for alcohol. Instead, the decision on when to stop serving alcohol is left up to each individual establishment. However, there are some restrictions in place. In New York City, for example, bars and restaurants must stop serving alcohol at 4:00 AM. In other areas of the state, the cutoff time for alcohol service may vary.
It’s important to note that just because an establishment is allowed to serve alcohol until a certain time, it does not mean that patrons are allowed to consume alcohol until that time. For example, if bars stop selling alcohol in New York at 2:00 AM, patrons may be required to finish their drinks and leave by 3:00 AM. It’s always a good idea to check with individual establishments to find out their policies on alcohol service and consumption.
Comparing the times you can buy alcohol on Sunday in different States
Different states have different alcohol laws. We have previously explored the Massachusetts 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 | You can buy alcohol in Arizona from 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. every day |
| 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 New York a dry State?
New York is not a dry state. In fact, New York is known for its vibrant nightlife and thriving bar and restaurant scene. However, the state does have laws and regulations in place to control the sale and consumption of alcohol.
For example, the legal drinking age in New York is 21, and it is illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under that age. Additionally, there are restrictions on the hours when alcohol can be sold, as well as limits on the amount of alcohol that can be purchased at one time.
Moreover, New York does not allow counties to make laws that declare themselves dry. The individual towns and cities may declare themselves dry, however.
New York also has a system of alcohol control that is overseen by the State Liquor Authority. The Authority is responsible for issuing licenses to businesses that wish to sell alcohol, as well as enforcing regulations related to alcohol sales and consumption. This includes monitoring businesses to ensure that they are complying with the relevant laws and regulations, and taking enforcement action against those that are not.
Overall, while New York has regulations in place to control the sale and consumption of alcohol, it is not a dry state. Rather, it is a state that recognizes the importance of responsible alcohol use and has put in place measures to ensure that alcohol is sold and consumed in a safe and responsible manner.
Dry Towns and Cities in New York
It’s important to note that New York State does not have any completely “dry” towns or cities, where the sale or possession of alcohol is completely prohibited. However, there are some towns and cities within the state that have restrictions on alcohol sales and consumption. Here is a list of some of the towns that are partially or fully “dry”:
- Berkshire, Tioga County: This town prohibits the sale of alcohol, with the exception of the village of Newark Valley.
- Caneadea, Allegany County: This town prohibits the sale of alcohol.
- Clymer, Chautauqua County: This town prohibits the sale of alcohol.
- Fremont, Steuben County: This town prohibits the sale of alcohol, with the exception of the village of Arkport.
- Jasper, Steuben County: This town prohibits the sale of alcohol.
- Lapeer, Cortland County: This town prohibits the sale of alcohol.
- Orwell, Oswego County: This town prohibits the sale of alcohol.
It’s worth noting that while some of these towns prohibit the sale of alcohol, possession, and consumption of alcohol are generally still allowed. Additionally, these restrictions may vary within the town, such as only being applicable to certain areas or times of the day. It’s always a good idea to check with the local authorities to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
Places you can buy beer in New York
We have plenty of places you can buy beer in New York depending on when and where you want to take your beer. Here is a table describing the different places you can buy alcohol in New York, including their opening and closing times, and any limitations on the type of alcoholic drinks they can sell:
| Place to Buy Alcohol | Opening Time (Monday-Saturday) | Closing Time (Monday-Saturday) | Opening Time (Sunday) | Closing Time (Sunday) | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breweries and Taprooms | 8 a.m. | 4 a.m. | 10 a.m. | 4 a.m. | Can sell for on and off-premise consumption. Can fill growlers for patrons. |
| Package and Liquor Stores | 8 a.m. but sell beer for 24 hours | Midnight | 12 p.m. (noon) | 9 p.m. | Can sell wine, liquor, and beer. |
| Grocery Stores | 24 hours a day | 24 hours a day | 8 a.m. | 3 a.m. | Can sell beer and low-ABV wine only in original packaging for off-premise consumption |
| Gas Stations | 24 hours | 24 hours | 8 a.m. | 3 a.m. | Can sell beer and low-ABV wines in original packaging for off-premise consumption |
| Bars and Restaurants | 8 a.m. | 4 a.m. | 10 a.m. | 4 a.m. | Can sell beer on draft, in bottles, or in cans. Bars may sell growlers for off-premise use. |
It’s important to note that while these are the general opening and closing times for alcohol sales in New York, there may be variations depending on the county or municipality. Additionally, businesses may have their own policies and restrictions on alcohol sales, so it’s always a good idea to check with the establishment or local authorities to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
The minimum drinking age in New York
The minimum drinking age in New York is 21 years old. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages. Additionally, it is illegal for anyone to sell or provide alcohol to anyone under 21 years old, and anyone caught violating these laws can face fines, suspension or revocation of their driver’s license, and even criminal charges.
If a premise sells alcohol to underage persons in New York, the business can face serious consequences. The State Liquor Authority (SLA) is responsible for enforcing alcohol-related laws and regulations in New York, and they take underage drinking and sales to minors very seriously.
Firstly, the business may be fined for violating the law, with fines ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the severity of the violation. Additionally, the business may have its liquor license suspended or revoked, which would prevent them from legally selling alcohol in the future.
Individuals who sell alcohol to minors can also face criminal charges and may be subject to fines, community service, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense. Repeat offenders may face even more severe penalties, including higher fines and longer license suspensions.
It’s important for businesses to take steps to prevent underage sales, such as checking IDs and training employees on responsible alcohol service practices. By complying with the relevant laws and regulations, businesses can help prevent underage drinking and avoid the serious consequences of selling alcohol to minors.
Driving with alcohol in the car or under the influence of alcohol
In New York, it is illegal to drive with an open container of alcohol in the car. This means that any open container of alcohol must be stored in the trunk of the car or in another area that is not accessible to the driver or passengers. If an open container is found in the passenger area of the car, the driver can be charged with a violation and may face fines and other penalties.
Additionally, it is illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol in New York. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%, and anyone found to have a BAC above this limit while driving can be charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). If your age is below 21 you are considered under the influence in New York if your BAC is above 0.02%.
The penalties for a DWI conviction can be severe and may include fines, license suspension, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, and even jail time. For those under 21 years old, the penalties are:
- A suspended license for 6 months
- To end the suspension early you can pay a $100 fee
- $125 fine
For those above 21 years old, the penalties for DWI for drivers who do not refuse a chemical test are:
- A suspended license for at least 6 months
- A Jail time of up to a year
- A $500-1000 fine
It’s important to remember that alcohol affects everyone differently, and even small amounts can impair your ability to drive safely. If you plan to drink, it’s always best to have a designated driver or to use a ride-sharing service to ensure that you and others on the road stay safe.
Conclusion
Off-premises (retailer liquor stores and wine shops) are permitted to sell alcohol until 12 a.m. from Monday to Saturday, and until 12 a.m. on Sundays but can only open for sale at 8 a.m. from Monday to Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sunday.
However, there are some exceptions, such as stores that have a special permit to sell alcohol until midnight on Saturdays and Sundays. On-premises (bar or lounge) sales are allowed from Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. and between 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. on Sunday.
Alcohol laws in New York State are strict and are enforced to protect public health and safety. The minimum drinking age is 21, and businesses that sell alcohol to minors can face serious consequences such as fines and license suspensions.
Additionally, driving with an open container of alcohol or under the influence of alcohol is illegal and can result in fines, license suspension, and even criminal charges. It’s important for individuals to be aware of these laws and to take steps to prevent underage drinking and drunk driving. By doing so, we can all work towards creating a safer and healthier community.
Sources
NYC.govhttps://portal.311.nyc.gov › article
New York State Liquor Authority
https://hopstersbrew.com/time-stop-selling-alcohol-in-georgia-beer-laws/
