Attention all Virginia residents and visitors who would like to know the time they stop selling alcohol in Virginia?! Have you ever found yourself in a desperate search for a nightcap, only to realize that you have no idea what time alcohol sales end in the state?
Well, fear not my thirsty friends, because Hopstersbrew is here to quench your curiosity! As the go-to source for all things knowledge, we’ve done the research and are ready to spill the tea (or should we say, the beer) on Virginia’s alcohol laws.
So, sit back, grab a cold one (if it’s still legal), and get ready to learn about the fascinating world of alcohol sales in the Commonwealth. Who knows, you might just be surprised by what you learn. We also described the time they stop selling alcohol in California for your comparison.
What Time do they Stop Selling Alcohol in Virginia?
In Virginia, alcohol sales are permitted between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. (midnight), seven days a week for local retailers (off-premise consumption). However, restaurants and clubs that offer on-premise consumption with mixed liquor licenses can continue selling alcohol until 2 a.m. Off-premise and retail locations must cease alcohol sales at midnight. So, if you’re planning a night out in the Commonwealth, note the open hours are between 6 a.m. to midnight every day.
Virginia’s alcohol sale regulations are relatively strict and are enforced at both the state and local levels. While the state law mandates that local retailers must stop selling alcohol by midnight, some towns and cities have implemented their own ordinances that are more restrictive. It is important to note that the state law always overrides local ordinances, so if there is any conflict, the state law prevails.
In some areas, businesses with a mixed liquor license, such as bars and restaurants, may be permitted to sell alcohol until 2 a.m. This license also allows for the sale of beer and wine, as well as liquor. However, this extended sale time only applies to on-premises consumption, meaning that any alcohol purchased must be consumed on the business’s premises.
Additionally, some areas may have different alcohol sale times on Sundays. For example, in Fairfax County, retailers may only sell beer and wine on Sundays between 12 p.m. (noon) and 12 a.m. (midnight). In the city of Norfolk, on the other hand, alcohol sales are permitted on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. These variations are important to keep in mind, especially if you are planning to purchase alcohol on a Sunday.
It’s worth noting that some counties and cities within Virginia are “dry,” meaning that the sale of alcohol is prohibited altogether. In these areas, residents must travel outside the jurisdiction to purchase alcohol legally. For example, some parts of the city of Chesapeake are dry, so residents must go to nearby Norfolk or Virginia Beach to purchase alcohol.
In conclusion, while Virginia’s state law sets a standard time for alcohol sales, local ordinances can make it more restrictive. It is important to check the specific regulations in your area, especially if you plan to consume alcohol late at night or on a Sunday. And, as always, remember to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
Can you buy alcohol after 12 in Virginia?
In Virginia, off-premise alcohol sales must end by midnight (12 a.m.) from Monday through Sunday. This means that retailers such as convenience stores, grocery stores, and liquor stores cannot sell any more alcohol after midnight. However, on-premise alcohol sales in bars, restaurants, and clubs with a mixed liquor license can continue until 2 a.m.
It’s important to note that these rules apply to the sale of alcohol for off-premise and on-premise consumption. So, if you want to purchase alcohol to consume at home, you will not be able to buy it after midnight (12 a.m.) on Monday through Sunday in all cities and counties in Virginia. However, if you’re at a bar or restaurant with a mixed liquor license, you can still order drinks until 2 a.m.
It is important to note that even large retailers like 7/11 follow the same alcohol sales hours which are from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. (midnight) from Monday to Sunday. This means that the sale hours in Virginia period extend for 18 hours daily.
Related: Illinois Beer Laws
Virginia alcohol laws for restaurants
Virginia has specific laws governing the sale and consumption of alcohol in restaurants. These laws apply to businesses that have a mixed beverage license, which allows them to serve beer, wine, and spirits.
Firstly, restaurants with a mixed beverage license can sell alcohol for on-premise consumption from 6 a.m. until 2 a.m., seven days a week. However, it’s worth noting that restaurants are required to stop serving alcohol at 2 a.m., even if food service continues after that time.
Secondly, there are strict rules about who can purchase and consume alcohol in restaurants. In Virginia, anyone under the age of 21 is prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or consuming alcohol. Restaurants must also have proper identification procedures in place to ensure that customers are of legal drinking age.
Additionally, it’s illegal to serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated, and businesses that violate this law can face penalties, including fines and the suspension or revocation of their liquor license.
Furthermore, restaurants with a mixed beverage license are required to maintain certain records related to alcohol sales, such as the number of drinks served and the time of sale. These records must be kept for at least two years and made available for inspection by the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC).
In conclusion, Virginia’s laws for restaurants with a mixed beverage license are strict and must be followed carefully. These businesses can sell alcohol from Monday through Sunday for on-premise consumption from 12 a.m. until 2 a.m., but must also comply with strict rules around age verification and record keeping.
How late can bars serve in Virginia?
In Virginia, bars with a mixed beverage license can serve alcohol from 6 a.m. until 2 a.m., seven days a week. This license allows bars to serve beer, wine, and spirits for on-premise consumption.
Growler refill can only happen from 6 a.m. until 12 a.m. (Midnight) from Monday through Sunday. This is because this alcohol sale is for off-premise consumption and thus should follow the off-premise consumption hours in the Virginia alcohol laws.
However, bars must comply with a variety of regulations related to the sale and service of alcohol. Buying liquor in Virginia should only be done according to the Virginia alcohol laws.
For example, bars must verify the age of all customers who order alcohol and are required to refuse service to anyone who appears to be visibly intoxicated. Under 21 years old can’t be served alcohol in Virginia. It’s important to note that this rule applies not only to bars but also to restaurants and other businesses that serve alcohol. You can compare it with Georgia’s alcohol laws.
Can you buy liquor on Sunday in VA?
You can buy liquor on Sunday in Virginia, but there are some restrictions to keep in mind. In Virginia, liquor stores are controlled by the state government and are operated by the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC). As a result, the rules governing the sale of liquor are stricter than those governing the sale of beer and wine.
Firstly, Virginia ABC stores are closed on most major holidays, including Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. On Sundays, from July 1, 2012, stores are open for limited hours, usually from noon until 6 p.m. However, some localities have enacted ordinances allowing liquor stores to remain open longer on Sundays, so it’s important to check with your local store to confirm their hours of operation.
Secondly, it’s worth noting that grocery stores and other retailers are not permitted to sell liquor (spirits) in Virginia but can only sell wine and beer. This means that if you want to purchase liquor, you must do so from an ABC store (state-owned and operated liquor store). However, beer and wine are available for purchase at grocery stores and other retailers.
In conclusion, while you can buy liquor on Sunday in Virginia, there are some restrictions to keep in mind. Virginia ABC stores are open for limited hours on Sundays, and grocery stores and other retailers are not permitted to sell liquor. If you’re planning to purchase liquor in Virginia, it’s important to check the hours of your local ABC store and plan accordingly.
DUI offenses in Virginia
In Virginia, a person can be charged with DUI (Driving Under the Influence) if they operate a motor vehicle while their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08 or higher. The legal limit for commercial drivers is 0.04, and for drivers under the age of 21, it’s 0.02.
First-time DUI offenders face a mandatory minimum fine of $250, and their driver’s license is suspended for one year. Repeat offenders face more severe penalties, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, and even jail time.
Additionally, all offenders must complete an alcohol safety program and may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle, which prevents the car from starting if the driver has been drinking.
It’s important to note that a DUI conviction can have serious consequences, including increased insurance rates, difficulty finding employment, and the stigma of having a criminal record. As such, it’s crucial to never drink and drive, and instead plan ahead for a safe and sober ride home.
Related: What time do they stop selling alcohol in Missouri?
Carrying open alcohol bottles in a car in Virginia
In Virginia, it is illegal to possess an open container of alcohol in the passenger area of a motor vehicle while it is being operated on a public highway. This means that it is illegal to carry open alcohol bottles in a car, even if the driver is not drinking from them.
The law defines the passenger area of a motor vehicle as the area designed to seat passengers while the motor vehicle is in operation and any area within the reach of a seated driver or passenger. This includes the front and back seats of the car, as well as any other areas of the car that can be accessed by passengers.
It’s important to always comply with Virginia’s open container laws and to never carry open alcohol bottles in a car, even if the driver is not consuming alcohol while driving.
VA code for open container in vehicle
The Virginia Code section that prohibits open containers of alcohol in a motor vehicle is Section 18.2-323.1. The law states that it is unlawful for any person to consume an alcoholic beverage while driving a motor vehicle, or for any person to possess an open container of alcohol in the passenger area of a motor vehicle while it is being operated on a public highway.
The passenger area is defined as the area designed to seat passengers while the motor vehicle is in operation and any area within the reach of a seated driver or passenger.
The penalty for violating this law is a Class 4 misdemeanor, which can result in a fine of up to $250. Additionally, if the driver of the vehicle is found to be in possession of an open container of alcohol, they may face additional charges for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) if their blood alcohol concentration is found to be above the legal limit. It’s important to always comply with Virginia’s open container laws to avoid fines, penalties, and legal troubles.
Open container law Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, as well as the entire state of Virginia, it is illegal to consume alcohol or possess an open container of alcohol in a public place, including sidewalks, streets, parks, and beaches. This means that individuals are not allowed to walk around with open containers of alcohol, even if they are not drinking from it.
Violating the open container law in Virginia Beach can result in a fine of up to $250 but you will not be sentenced to jail since it is a Class 4 misdemeanor offense. In addition, individuals who are found to be publicly intoxicated can also be charged with a separate offense and may face additional fines or even arrest.
However, there are some exceptions to the open container law, such as during specific events or festivals where the consumption of alcohol in designated areas is allowed. Additionally, restaurants and bars with outdoor seating areas can serve alcohol to customers within those designated areas. It’s important to be aware of the specific rules and regulations in Virginia Beach and to always consume alcohol responsibly and in accordance with the law.
Where to buy liquor in Virginia?
In Virginia, liquor can only be purchased from state-owned ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) stores. These stores are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Bars and restaurants can sell alcohol for on-premise consumption from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day of the week but must stop serving food at 2 a.m. Convenience and grocery stores are allowed to sell beer and wine only, and sales of alcohol are prohibited after midnight.
Craft breweries and tap rooms can also sell their own beer and wine, but the hours of operation and other restrictions may vary. Some breweries may require reservations or have limited hours.
| Places to Buy Alcohol | Time of alcohol Sale | To Whom | Other Prohibitions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liquor Stores | Mon-Sat 10 a.m.- 9 p.m., Sun 12 p.m.- 6 p.m. | Anyone 21 years and older with a valid ID | Closed on major holidays, no liquor sales after 9 p.m. on any day |
| Bars and Restaurants | Mon-Sat 10a.m.- 9p.m., Sun 12 p.m.- 6 p.m. | Anyone 21 years and older with a valid ID | Can only serve alcohol for on-premise consumption, must stop serving food at 2 a.m. |
| Convenience Stores | Mon-Sun 6 a.m.-12 a.m. (midnight) | Anyone 21 years and older with a valid ID | Can’t sell spirits, can only sell beer and wine, no sales of alcohol after midnight |
| Grocery Stores | Mon-Sun 6 a.m.- 12 a.m. | Anyone 21 years and older with a valid ID | Can’t sell spirits, can only sell beer and wine, no sales of alcohol after midnight |
| Craft Breweries and Tap Rooms | Mon-Sun varies | Anyone 21 years and older with valid ID | Can only serve their own products, some may require reservations or have limited hours |
It’s important to note that anyone purchasing alcohol in Virginia must be at least 21 years old and have a valid ID. Additionally, it’s illegal to serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated, and businesses that violate this law can face penalties, including fines and the suspension or revocation of their liquor license.
Conclusion
Virginia has strict alcohol laws that regulate when and where alcohol can be purchased, consumed, and transported. The sale of alcohol in retail locations such as liquor stores and convenience stores is permitted between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. (midnight), Monday to Sunday, while restaurants and clubs with mixed liquor licenses can serve alcohol from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.. However, on-premise and off-premise establishments must stop alcohol sales at midnight.
Virginia law also prohibits the possession of an open container of alcohol in a public place or in a motor vehicle. Violating this law can result in fines and even arrest. Additionally, it is illegal to sell or provide alcohol to anyone under the age of 21, and driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense that can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
It’s important to be aware of the specific rules and regulations regarding alcohol in Virginia, including the time and locations where alcohol can be purchased, the consequences of violating open container laws, and the serious consequences of DUI offenses. By understanding these laws and drinking responsibly, individuals can enjoy alcohol in Virginia while staying within the boundaries of the law.
FAQs
What time does Virginia stop selling alcohol?
In Virginia, alcohol sales at off-premise retailers must end at midnight every day of the week while starting at 6 a.m. from Monday through Sunday. However, restaurants and clubs with mixed liquor licenses can sell alcohol until 2 a.m., while on-premise consumption at bars and restaurants is permitted until 2 a.m. every day of the week.
What time can you buy beer in Virginia?
In Virginia, beer can be purchased from grocery and convenience stores between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. (midnight) every day of the week. However, beer sales at bars and restaurants with mixed beverage licenses are permitted until 2 a.m. from 6 a.m. Liquor stores, which are state-run, are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 12 p.m. (noon) to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
What time does 7-11 stop selling alcohol in Virginia?
7 Eleven stops selling alcohol in Virginia at 12 a.m. (midnight) after having started selling alcohol at 6 a.m. There are no alcohol sales restrictions in Virginia thus meaning 7 eleven can sell alcohol for an extended period of 18 hours that is from 6 a.m. to 12 midnight.
How late can you buy alcohol at Sheetz in VA?
You can only buy alcohol at Sheetz in VA as late as 12 a.m. (midnight). Sheetz convenience stores in Virginia sell alcohol between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. (midnight), Monday to Sunday, in compliance with Virginia state law. Therefore, customers cannot buy alcohol at Sheetz after midnight.
Sources
Alcohol-Related Laws – Virginia ABC
https://alcoholpolicy.niaaa.nih.gov/underage-drinking/state-profiles/virginia/98
