Law Advocate Group, LLP 
California has strict laws regulating the sale and distribution of alcohol. Whether you own a bar, restaurant, liquor store, or convenience store, it is essential to understand the state’s alcohol laws to avoid fines, penalties, or even the loss of your liquor license.
In this blog post, we will cover the key limitations on alcohol sales in California, including licensing requirements, hours of sale, age restrictions, and other important regulations that businesses must follow.
1. Alcohol Sales Hours in California
Under California Business and Professions Code § 25631, alcohol sales are restricted during certain hours.
- On-Site Sales (Bars, Restaurants, Nightclubs)
- Alcohol can be sold from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
- After 2:00 AM, selling or serving alcohol is prohibited until 6:00 AM.
- Off-Site Sales (Liquor Stores, Grocery Stores, Convenience Stores)
- Alcohol can be sold from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
- No sales are allowed between 2:00 AM and 6:00 AM.
Violating these restrictions can lead to fines, license suspension, or revocation.
2. Age Restrictions for Alcohol Sales
California enforces strict age laws to prevent underage drinking.
• The legal drinking age is 21.
• Retailers must check IDs for anyone appearing under 30.
• Selling alcohol to minors is a misdemeanor and can result in up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
• Bars and stores cannot allow minors to purchase or consume alcohol on the premises, even with parental consent.
3. Licensing Requirements for Alcohol Sales
Businesses must obtain the appropriate license from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) to sell alcohol legally.
Types of Alcohol Licenses
• Type 20 – Off-sale beer and wine (grocery and convenience stores).
• Type 21 – Off-sale general (liquor stores).
• Type 41 – On-sale beer and wine (restaurants).
• Type 47 – On-sale general (restaurants serving beer, wine, and spirits).
• Type 48 – On-sale general (bars and nightclubs).
Failing to secure the correct license or violating license terms can result in severe penalties.
4. Open Container Laws
California law prohibits the consumption of alcohol in certain public areas.
• No open alcohol containers in public places like streets, sidewalks, and parks (except in designated areas).
• It is illegal to have an open container in a vehicle, even if the driver is sober.
• Businesses cannot allow customers to take open alcoholic beverages outside unless they have a special permit (e.g., a sidewalk café permit).
5. Restrictions on Alcohol Discounts and Promotions
California has strict regulations on alcohol promotions, including:
• Happy Hour Rules – Businesses cannot offer free drinks or “all-you-can-drink” specials.
• Discounted Pricing – Two-for-one alcohol promotions are prohibited.
• No Self-Service – Customers cannot pour their own drinks in bars or restaurants.
Violations can lead to fines and potential ABC license suspension.
6. DUI and Dram Shop Liability Laws
While businesses are generally not liable for a customer’s DUI, they can be held accountable if they knowingly serve alcohol to a minor or an obviously intoxicated person.
• Bars and restaurants can lose their liquor license if they repeatedly serve intoxicated customers.
• Selling alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person is a misdemeanor.
• Businesses must train staff to recognize signs of intoxication and refuse service when necessary.
How an Attorney Can Help
Violating California’s alcohol laws can result in fines, lawsuits, and license revocation. An experienced attorney can:
• Help you secure the correct ABC license for your business.
• Defend against liquor license violations or suspensions.
• Provide legal guidance on state and local alcohol regulations.
California has strict limitations on alcohol sales, and businesses must comply with these laws to avoid penalties. Whether you are a bar owner, restaurant operator, or liquor store manager, staying informed about sales hours, licensing, and promotional restrictions is crucial.
Need legal advice on alcohol licensing or compliance? Contact Law Advocate Group, LLP today for expert assistance.
