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title-66•Title 66 RCW — Alcoholic Beverage Control
In this title, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Alcohol" is that substance known as ethyl alcohol, hydrated oxide of ethyl, or spirit of wine, which is commonly produced by the fermentation or distillation of grain, starch, molasses, or sugar, or other substances including all dilutions and mixtures of this substance. The term "alcohol" does not include alcohol in the possession of a manufacturer or distiller of alcohol fuel, as described in RCW 66.12.130, which is intended to be denatured and used as a fuel for use in motor vehicles, farm implements, and machines or implements of husbandry.
(2) "Authorized representative" means a person who:
(a) Is required to have a federal basic permit issued pursuant to the federal alcohol administration act, 27 U.S.C. Sec. 204;
(b) Has its business located in the United States outside of the state of Washington;
(c) Acquires ownership of beer or wine for transportation into and resale in the state of Washington; and which beer or wine is produced by a brewery or winery in the United States outside of the state of Washington; and
(d) Is appointed by the brewery or winery referenced in (c) of this subsection as its authorized representative for marketing and selling its products within the United States in accordance with a written agreement between the authorized representative and such brewery or winery pursuant to this title.
(3) "Beer" means any malt beverage, flavored malt beverage, or malt liquor as these terms are defined in this chapter.
(4) "Beer distributor" means a person who buys beer from a domestic brewery, microbrewery, beer certificate of approval holder, or beer importers, or who acquires foreign produced beer from a source outside of the United States, for the purpose of selling the same pursuant to this title, or who represents such brewer or brewery as agent.
(5) "Beer importer" means a person or business within Washington who purchases beer from a beer certificate of approval holder or who acquires foreign produced beer from a source outside of the United States for the purpose of selling the same pursuant to this title.
(6) "Board" means the liquor and cannabis board, constituted under this title.
(7) "Brewer" or "brewery" means any person engaged in the business of manufacturing beer and malt liquor. Brewer includes a brand owner of malt beverages who holds a brewer's notice with the federal bureau of alcohol, tobacco, and firearms at a location outside the state and whose malt beverage is contract-produced by a licensed in-state brewery, and who may exercise within the state, under a domestic brewery license, only the privileges of storing, selling to licensed beer distributors, and exporting beer from the state.
(8) "Club" means an organization of persons, incorporated or unincorporated, operated solely for fraternal, benevolent, educational, athletic, or social purposes, and not for pecuniary gain.
(9) "Confection" means a preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners in combination with chocolate, fruits, nuts, dairy products, or flavorings, in the form of bars, drops, or pieces.
(10) "Consume" includes the putting of liquor to any use, whether by drinking or otherwise.
(11) "Contract liquor store" means a business that sells liquor on behalf of the board through a contract with a contract liquor store manager.
(12) "Craft distillery" means a distillery that pays the reduced licensing fee under RCW 66.24.140.
(13) "Delivery" means the transportation of alcohol to an individual located within Washington state from a licensed location holding an alcohol delivery endorsement as part of a delivery order. "Delivery" does not include services provided by common carriers.
(14) "Dentist" means a practitioner of dentistry duly and regularly licensed and engaged in the practice of his or her profession within the state pursuant to chapter 18.32 RCW.
(15) "Distiller" means a person engaged in the business of distilling spirits.
(16) "Domestic brewery" means a place where beer and malt liquor are manufactured or produced by a brewer within the state.
(17) "Domestic winery" means a place where wines are manufactured or produced within the state of Washington.
(18) "Drug store" means a place whose principal business is, the sale of drugs, medicines, and pharmaceutical preparations and maintains a regular prescription department and employs a registered pharmacist during all hours the drug store is open.
(19) "Druggist" means any person who holds a valid certificate and is a registered pharmacist and is duly and regularly engaged in carrying on the business of pharmaceutical chemistry pursuant to chapter 18.64 RCW.
(20) "Employee" means any person employed by the board.
(21) "Flavored malt beverage" means:
(a) A malt beverage containing six percent or less alcohol by volume to which flavoring or other added nonbeverage ingredients are added that contain distilled spirits of not more than forty-nine percent of the beverage's overall alcohol content; or
(b) A malt beverage containing more than six percent alcohol by volume to which flavoring or other added nonbeverage ingredients are added that contain distilled spirits of not more than one and one-half percent of the beverage's overall alcohol content.
(22) "Fund" means 'liquor revolving fund.'
(23) "Hotel" means buildings, structures, and grounds, having facilities for preparing, cooking, and serving food, that are kept, used, maintained, advertised, or held out to the public to be a place where food is served and sleeping accommodations are offered for pay to transient guests, in which twenty or more rooms are used for the sleeping accommodation of such transient guests. The buildings, structures, and grounds must be located on adjacent property either owned or leased by the same person or persons.
(24) "Importer" means a person who buys distilled spirits from a distillery outside the state of Washington and imports such spirituous liquor into the state for sale to the board or for export.
(25) "Imprisonment" means confinement in the county jail.
(26) "Liquor" includes the four varieties of liquor herein defined (alcohol, spirits, wine, and beer), and all fermented, spirituous, vinous, or malt liquor, or combinations thereof, and mixed liquor, a part of which is fermented, spirituous, vinous or malt liquor, or otherwise intoxicating; and every liquid or solid or semisolid or other substance, patented or not, containing alcohol, spirits, wine, or beer, and all drinks or drinkable liquids and all preparations or mixtures capable of human consumption, and any liquid, semisolid, solid, or other substance, which contains more than one percent of alcohol by weight shall be conclusively deemed to be intoxicating. Liquor does not include confections or food products that contain one percent or less of alcohol by weight.
(27) "Malt beverage" or "malt liquor" means any beverage such as beer, ale, lager beer, stout, and porter obtained by the alcoholic fermentation of an infusion or decoction of pure hops, or pure extract of hops and pure barley malt or other wholesome grain or cereal in pure water containing not more than eight percent of alcohol by weight, and not less than one-half of one percent of alcohol by volume. For the purposes of this title, any such beverage containing more than eight percent of alcohol by weight shall be referred to as "strong beer."
(28) "Manufacturer" means a person engaged in the preparation of liquor for sale, in any form whatsoever.
(29) "Nightclub" means an establishment that provides entertainment and has as its primary source of revenue (a) the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises, (b) cover charges, or (c) both.
(30) "Package" means any container or receptacle used for holding liquor.
(31) "Passenger vessel" means any boat, ship, vessel, barge, or other floating craft of any kind carrying passengers for compensation.
(32) "Permit" means a permit for the purchase of liquor under this title.
(33) "Person" means an individual, copartnership, association, or corporation.
(34) "Physician" means a medical practitioner duly and regularly licensed and engaged in the practice of his or her profession within the state pursuant to chapter 18.71 RCW.
(35) "Powdered alcohol" means any powder or crystalline substance containing alcohol that is produced for direct use or reconstitution.
(36) "Prescription" means a memorandum signed by a physician and given by him or her to a patient for the obtaining of liquor pursuant to this title for medicinal purposes.
(37) "Public place" includes streets and alleys of incorporated cities and towns; state or county or township highways or roads; buildings and grounds used for school purposes; public dance halls and grounds adjacent thereto; those parts of establishments where beer may be sold under this title, soft drink establishments, public buildings, public meeting halls, lobbies, halls and dining rooms of hotels, restaurants, theaters, stores, garages and filling stations which are open to and are generally used by the public and to which the public is permitted to have unrestricted access; railroad trains, stages, and other public conveyances of all kinds and character, and the depots and waiting rooms used in conjunction therewith which are open to unrestricted use and access by the public; publicly owned bathing beaches, parks, and/or playgrounds; and all other places of like or similar nature to which the general public has unrestricted right of access, and which are generally used by the public.
(38) "Regulations" means regulations made by the board under the powers conferred by this title.
(39) "Restaurant" means any establishment provided with special space and accommodations where, in consideration of payment, food, without lodgings, is habitually furnished to the public, not including drug stores and soda fountains, but including domestic breweries and microbreweries who contract with another establishment to provide food service in accordance with RCW 66.24.240(4) and 66.24.244(5).
(40) "Sale" and "sell" include exchange, barter, and traffic; and also include the selling or supplying or distributing, by any means whatsoever, of liquor, or of any liquid known or described as beer or by any name whatever commonly used to describe malt or brewed liquor or of wine, by any person to any person; and also include a sale or selling within the state to a foreign consignee or his or her agent in the state. "Sale" and "sell" shall not include the giving, at no charge, of a reasonable amount of liquor by a person not licensed by the board to a person not licensed by the board, for personal use only. "Sale" and "sell" also does not include a raffle authorized under RCW 9.46.0315: PROVIDED, That the nonprofit organization conducting the raffle has obtained the appropriate permit from the board.
(41) "Service bar" means a fixed or portable table, counter, cart, or similar workstation primarily used to prepare, mix, serve, and sell alcohol that is picked up by employees or customers. Customers may not be seated or allowed to consume food or alcohol at a service bar.
(42) "Soda fountain" means a place especially equipped with apparatus for the purpose of dispensing soft drinks, whether mixed or otherwise.
(43) "Soju" means a traditional Korean distilled alcoholic beverage, produced using authentic Korean recipes and production methods, and derived from agricultural products, that contains not more than twenty-four percent of alcohol by volume.
(44) "Spirits" means any beverage which contains alcohol obtained by distillation, except flavored malt beverages, but including wines exceeding twenty-four percent of alcohol by volume.
(45) "Store" means a state liquor store established under this title.
(46) "Tavern" means any establishment with special space and accommodation for sale by the glass and for consumption on the premises, of beer, as herein defined.
(47) "VIP airport lounge" means an establishment within an international airport located beyond security checkpoints that provides a special space to sit, relax, read, work, and enjoy beverages where access is controlled by the VIP airport lounge operator and is generally limited to the following classifications of persons:
(a) Airline passengers of any age whose admission is based on a first-class, executive, or business class ticket;
(b) Airline passengers of any age who are qualified members or allowed guests of certain frequent flyer or other loyalty incentive programs maintained by airlines that have agreements describing the conditions for access to the VIP airport lounge;
(c) Airline passengers of any age who are qualified members or allowed guests of certain enhanced amenities programs maintained by companies that have agreements describing the conditions for access to the VIP airport lounge;
(d) Airport and airline employees, government officials, foreign dignitaries, and other attendees of functions held by the airport authority or airlines related to the promotion of business objectives such as increasing international air traffic and enhancing foreign trade where access to the VIP airport lounge will be controlled by the VIP airport lounge operator; and
(e) Airline passengers of any age or airline employees whose admission is based on a pass issued or permission given by the airline for access to the VIP airport lounge.
(48) "VIP airport lounge operator" means an airline, port district, or other entity operating a VIP airport lounge that: Is accountable for compliance with the alcohol beverage control act under this title; holds the license under chapter 66.24 RCW issued to the VIP airport lounge; and provides a point of contact for addressing any licensing and enforcement by the board.
(49)(a) "Wine" means any alcoholic beverage obtained by fermentation of fruits (grapes, berries, apples, et cetera) or other agricultural product containing sugar, to which any saccharine substances may have been added before, during or after fermentation, and containing not more than twenty-four percent of alcohol by volume, including sweet wines fortified with wine spirits, such as port, sherry, muscatel, and angelica, not exceeding twenty-four percent of alcohol by volume and not less than one-half of one percent of alcohol by volume. For purposes of this title, any beverage containing no more than fourteen percent of alcohol by volume when bottled or packaged by the manufacturer shall be referred to as "table wine," and any beverage containing alcohol in an amount more than fourteen percent by volume when bottled or packaged by the manufacturer shall be referred to as "fortified wine." However, "fortified wine" shall not include: (i) Wines that are both sealed or capped by cork closure and aged two years or more; and (ii) wines that contain more than fourteen percent alcohol by volume solely as a result of the natural fermentation process and that have not been produced with the addition of wine spirits, brandy, or alcohol.
(b) This subsection shall not be interpreted to require that any wine be labeled with the designation "table wine" or "fortified wine."
(50) "Wine distributor" means a person who buys wine from a domestic winery, wine certificate of approval holder, or wine importer, or who acquires foreign produced wine from a source outside of the United States, for the purpose of selling the same not in violation of this title, or who represents such vintner or winery as agent.
(51) "Wine importer" means a person or business within Washington who purchases wine from a wine certificate of approval holder or who acquires foreign produced wine from a source outside of the United States for the purpose of selling the same pursuant to this title.
(52) "Winery" means a business conducted by any person for the manufacture of wine for sale, other than a domestic winery.
[ 2025 c 141 s 6; 2023 c 279 s 2. Prior: 2019 c 61 s 1; 2015 c 193 s 3; 2012 c 117 s 264; prior: 2011 c 325 s 2; 2011 c 195 s 3; prior: 2009 c 373 s 1; 2009 c 271 s 2; 2008 c 94 s 4; (2008 c 94 s 3 expired July 1, 2008); prior: 2007 c 370 s 10; 2007 c 226 s 1; prior: 2006 c 225 s 1; 2006 c 101 s 1; 2005 c 151 s 1; 2004 c 160 s 1; 2000 c 142 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 37; 1991 c 192 s 1; 1987 c 386 s 3; 1984 c 78 s 5; 1982 c 39 s 1; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 1; 1980 c 140 s 3; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 13; 1935 c 158 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 3; RRS s 7306-3. Formerly RCW 66.04.010 through 66.04.380. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2023 c 279: See note following RCW 66.24.710.
Finding—Intent—Effective date—2015 c 193: See notes following RCW 66.44.380.
Effective date—2008 c 94 ss 4 and 11: "Sections 4 and 11 of this act take effect July 1, 2008." [ 2008 c 94 s 13.]
Expiration date—2008 c 94 s 3: "Section 3 of this act expires July 1, 2008." [ 2008 c 94 s 12.]
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: "Sections 10 through 20 of this act take effect July 1, 2008." [ 2007 c 370 s 23.]
Effective date—2004 c 160: "This act takes effect January 1, 2005." [ 2004 c 160 s 20.]
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Finding and declaration—Severability—1984 c 78: See notes following RCW 66.12.160.
Severability—1982 c 39: "If any provision of this amendatory act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1982 c 39 s 3.]
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: "The effective date of this 1969 amendatory act is July 1, 1969." [ 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 15.]
"Public place" as defined in this title shall not include (a) any of those parks under the control of the state parks and recreation commission, nor, (b) parks and picnic areas adjacent to and held by the same ownership as licensed brewers and domestic wineries for the consumption of beer and wine produced by the respective brewery or winery, as prescribed by regulation adopted by the board pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 219 s 1; 1971 ex.s. c 208 s 3. ]
In this title, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Retailer" except as expressly defined by RCW 66.28.285(5) with respect to its use in RCW 66.28.280 through 66.28.315, means the holder of a license or permit issued by the board authorizing sale of liquor to consumers for consumption on and/or off the premises. With respect to retailer licenses, "on-sale" refers to the license privilege of selling for consumption upon the licensed premises.
(2) "Spirits distributor" means a person, other than a person who holds only a retail license, who buys spirits from a domestic distiller, manufacturer, supplier, spirits distributor, or spirits importer, or who acquires foreign-produced spirits from a source outside of the United States, for the purpose of reselling the same not in violation of this title, or who represents such distiller as agent.
(3) "Spirits importer" means a person who buys distilled spirits from a distiller outside the state of Washington and imports such spirits into the state for sale or export.
[ 2025 c 58 s 1009; 2012 c 2 s 125 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). ]
NOTES:
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
This entire title shall be deemed an exercise of the police power of the state, for the protection of the welfare, health, peace, morals, and safety of the people of the state, and all its provisions shall be liberally construed for the accomplishment of that purpose.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 2; RRS s 7306-2. ]
There shall be a board, known as the "Washington state liquor and cannabis board," consisting of three members, to be appointed by the governor, with the consent of the senate, who shall each be paid an annual salary to be fixed by the governor in accordance with the provisions of RCW 43.03.040. The governor may, in his or her discretion, appoint one of the members as chair of the board, and a majority of the members shall constitute a quorum of the board.
[ 2015 c 70 s 3; 2012 c 117 s 265; 1961 c 307 s 7; 1949 c 5 s 8; 1945 c 208 s 1; 1937 c 225 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 63; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-63. Formerly RCW 43.66.010. ]
NOTES:
Short title—2015 c 70: "This act may be known and cited as the cannabis patient protection act." [ 2015 c 70 s 1.]
Findings—Intent—2025 c 58; 2015 c 70: "The legislature finds that since voters approved Initiative Measure No. 692 in 1998, it has been the public policy of the state to permit the medical use of cannabis. Between 1998 and the present day, there have been multiple legislative attempts to clarify what is meant by the medical use of cannabis and to ensure qualifying patients have a safe, consistent, and adequate source of cannabis for their medical needs.
The legislature further finds that qualifying patients are people with serious medical conditions and have been responsible for finding their own source of cannabis for their own personal medical use. Either by growing it themselves, designating someone to grow for them, or participating in collective gardens, patients have developed methods of access in spite of continued federal opposition to the medical use of cannabis. In a time when access itself was an issue and no safe, consistent source of cannabis was available, this unregulated system was permitted by the state to ensure some, albeit limited, access to cannabis for medical use. Also permitted were personal possession limits of fifteen plants and twenty-four ounces of useable cannabis, which was deemed to be the amount of cannabis needed for a sixty-day supply. In a time when supply was not consistent, this amount of cannabis was necessary to ensure patients would be able to address their immediate medical needs.
The legislature further finds that while possession amounts are provided in statute, these do not amount to protection from arrest and prosecution for patients. In fact, patients in compliance with state law are not provided arrest protection. They may be arrested and their only remedy is to assert an affirmative defense at trial that they are in compliance with the law and have a medical need. Too many patients using cannabis for medical purposes today do not know this; many falsely believe they cannot be arrested so long as their health care provider has authorized them for the medical use of cannabis.
The legislature further finds that in 2012 voters passed Initiative Measure No. 502 which permitted the recreational use of cannabis. For the first time in our nation's history, cannabis would be regulated, taxed, and sold for recreational consumption. Initiative Measure No. 502 provides for strict regulation on the production, processing, and distribution of cannabis. Under Initiative Measure No. 502, cannabis is trackable from seed to sale and may only be sold or grown under license. Cannabis must be tested for impurities and purchasers of cannabis must be informed of the THC level in the cannabis. Since its passage, two hundred fifty producer/processor licenses and sixty-three retail licenses have been issued, covering the majority of the state. With the current product canopy exceeding 2.9 million square feet, and retailers in place, the state now has a system of safe, consistent, and adequate access to cannabis; the marketplace is not the same marketplace envisioned by the voters in 1998. While medical needs remain, the state is in the untenable position of having a recreational product that is tested and subject to production standards that ensure safe access for recreational users. No such standards exist for medical users and, consequently, the very people originally meant to be helped through the medical use of cannabis do not know if their product has been tested for molds, do not know where their cannabis has been grown, have no certainty in the level of THC or CBD in their products, and have no assurances that their products have been handled through quality assurance measures. It is not the public policy of the state to allow qualifying patients to only have access to products that may be endangering their health.
The legislature, therefore, intends to adopt a comprehensive act that uses the regulations in place for the recreational market to provide regulation for the medical use of cannabis. It intends to ensure that patients retain their ability to grow their own cannabis for their own medical use and it intends to ensure that patients have the ability to possess more cannabis-infused products, useable cannabis, and cannabis concentrates than what is available to a nonmedical user. It further intends that medical specific regulations be adopted as needed and under consultation of the departments of health and agriculture so that safe handling practices will be adopted and so that testing standards for medical products meet or exceed those standards in use in the recreational market.
The legislature further intends that the costs associated with implementing and administering the medical cannabis authorization database shall be financed from the health professions account and that these funds shall be restored to the health professions account through future appropriations using funds derived from the dedicated cannabis account." [ 2025 c 58 s 4003; 2015 c 70 s 2.]
References to Washington state liquor control board—Draft legislation—2015 c 70: "All references to the Washington state liquor control board must be construed as referring to the Washington state liquor and cannabis board. The code reviser must prepare legislation for the 2016 legislative session changing all references in the Revised Code of Washington from the Washington state liquor control board to the Washington state liquor and cannabis board." [ 2015 c 70 s 47.]
(1) The members of the board to be appointed after December 2, 1948, shall be appointed for terms beginning January 15, 1949, and expiring as follows: One member of the board for a term of three years from January 15, 1949; one member of the board for a term of six years from January 15, 1949; and one member of the board for a term of nine years from January 15, 1949. Each of the members of the board appointed hereunder shall hold office until his or her successor is appointed and qualified. After June 11, 1986, the term that began on January 15, 1985, will end on January 15, 1989, the term beginning on January 15, 1988, will end on January 15, 1993, and the term beginning on January 15, 1991, will end on January 15, 1997. Thereafter, upon the expiration of the term of any member appointed after June 11, 1986, each succeeding member of the board shall be appointed and hold office for the term of six years. In case of a vacancy, it shall be filled by appointment by the governor for the unexpired portion of the term in which said vacancy occurs. No vacancy in the membership of the board shall impair the right of the remaining member or members to act, except as herein otherwise provided.
(2) The principal office of the board shall be at the state capitol, and it may establish such other offices as it may deem necessary.
(3) Any member of the board may be removed for inefficiency, malfeasance, or misfeasance in office, upon specific written charges filed by the governor, who shall transmit such written charges to the member accused and to the chief justice of the supreme court. The chief justice shall thereupon designate a tribunal composed of three judges of the superior court to hear and adjudicate the charges. Such tribunal shall fix the time of the hearing, which shall be public, and the procedure for the hearing, and the decision of such tribunal shall be final and not subject to review by the supreme court. Removal of any member of the board by the tribunal shall disqualify such member for reappointment.
(4) Each member of the board shall devote his or her entire time to the duties of his or her office and no member of the board shall hold any other public office. Before entering upon the duties of his or her office, each of said members of the board shall enter into a surety bond executed by a surety company authorized to do business in this state, payable to the state of Washington, to be approved by the governor in the penal sum of fifty thousand dollars conditioned upon the faithful performance of his or her duties, and shall take and subscribe to the oath of office prescribed for elective state officers, which oath and bond shall be filed with the secretary of state. The premium for said bond shall be paid by the board.
[ 2012 c 117 s 266; 1986 c 105 s 1; 1949 c 5 s 9; 1947 c 113 s 1; 1945 c 208 s 2; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 64; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-64. Formerly RCW 43.66.020. ]
The board may employ such number of employees as in its judgment are required from time to time.
[ 1961 c 1 s 30 (Initiative Measure No. 207, approved November 8, 1960); 1947 c 113 s 2; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 65; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 7306-65. Formerly RCW 43.66.030. ]
The administration of this title is vested in the *liquor control board, constituted under this title.
[ 2012 c 2 s 202 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 5; RRS s 7306-5. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
The attorney general shall be the general counsel of the *liquor control board and he or she shall institute and prosecute all actions and proceedings which may be necessary in the enforcement and carrying out of the provisions of this chapter and this title.
He or she shall assign such assistants as may be necessary to the exclusive duty of assisting the *liquor control board in the enforcement of this title.
[ 2012 c 117 s 267; 1961 ex.s. c 6 s 2; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 66; RRS s 7306-66. Formerly RCW 43.66.140. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—Transfer of liquor revolving fund to state treasurer—Outstanding obligations—1961 ex.s. c 6: See notes following RCW 66.08.170.
The state auditor shall audit the books, records, and affairs of the board annually. The board may provide for additional audits by certified public accountants. All such audits shall be public records of the state. The payment of the audits provided for in this section shall be paid as provided in RCW 66.08.026 for other administrative expenses.
[ 1987 c 74 s 1; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 2; 1961 ex.s. c 6 s 3; 1937 c 138 s 1; 1935 c 174 s 12; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 71; RRS s 7306-71. Formerly RCW 43.66.150. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective date—Transfer of liquor revolving fund to state treasurer—Outstanding obligations—1961 ex.s. c 6: See notes following RCW 66.08.170.
Administrative expenses of the board must be appropriated and paid from the liquor revolving fund. These administrative expenses include, but not be [are not] limited to: The salaries and expenses of the board and its employees, legal services, pilot projects, annual or other audits, and other general costs of conducting the business of the board. The administrative expenses do not include those amounts distributed pursuant to RCW 66.08.180, 66.08.190, 66.08.200, or 66.08.210. Agency commissions for contract liquor stores must be established by the *liquor control board after consultation with and approval by the director of the office of financial management. All expenditures and payment of obligations authorized by this section are subject to the allotment requirements of chapter 43.88 RCW.
[ 2012 c 2 s 203 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2008 c 67 s 1; 2005 c 151 s 2; 2004 c 63 s 1; 2001 c 313 s 1; 1998 c 265 s 2; 1997 c 148 s 1; 1996 c 291 s 3; 1983 c 160 s 2; 1963 c 239 s 1; 1961 ex.s. c 6 s 4. Formerly RCW 43.66.161. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—2008 c 67: "This act takes effect July 1, 2009." [ 2008 c 67 s 2.]
Intent—1998 c 265: "It is the intent of the legislature that expenditures associated with the implementation of using credit and debit cards in state liquor stores and agency liquor vendor stores not have a negative impact to the liquor revolving fund balance and that transfers to the state general fund, the cities, and the counties not be reduced because of these costs." [ 1998 c 265 s 1.]
Severability—1963 c 239: "If any provision of this act, or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1963 c 239 s 2.]
Effective date—Transfer of liquor revolving fund to state treasurer—Outstanding obligations—1961 ex.s. c 6: See notes following RCW 66.08.170.
The power of the board to adopt rules under chapter 34.05 RCW extends to:
(1) Prescribing the duties of the employees of the board, and regulating their conduct in the discharge of their duties;
(2) Prescribing an official seal and official labels and stamps and determining the manner in which they must be attached to every package of liquor sold or sealed under this title, including the prescribing of different official seals or different official labels for different classes of liquor;
(3) Prescribing forms to be used for purposes of this title or the regulations, and the terms and conditions to be contained in permits and licenses issued under this title, and the qualifications for receiving a permit or license issued under this title, including a criminal history record information check. The board may submit the criminal history record information check to the Washington state patrol and to the identification division of the federal bureau of investigation in order that these agencies may search their records for prior arrests and convictions of the individual or individuals who filled out the forms. The board must require fingerprinting of any applicant whose criminal history record information check is submitted to the federal bureau of investigation;
(4) Prescribing the fees payable in respect of permits and licenses issued under this title for which no fees are prescribed in this title, and prescribing the fees for anything done or permitted to be done under the regulations;
(5) Prescribing the kinds and quantities of liquor which may be kept on hand by the holder of a special permit for the purposes named in the permit, regulating the manner in which the same is kept and disposed of, and providing for the inspection of the same at any time at the instance of the board;
(6) Regulating the sale of liquor kept by the holders of licenses which entitle the holder to purchase and keep liquor for sale;
(7) Prescribing the records of purchases or sales of liquor kept by the holders of licenses, and the reports to be made thereon to the board, and providing for inspection of the records so kept;
(8) Prescribing the kinds and quantities of liquor for which a prescription may be given, and the number of prescriptions which may be given to the same patient within a stated period;
(9) Prescribing the manner of giving and serving notices required by this title or the regulations, where not otherwise provided for in this title;
(10) Regulating premises in which liquor is kept for export from the state, or from which liquor is exported, prescribing the books and records to be kept therein and the reports to be made thereon to the board, and providing for the inspection of the premises and the books, records and the liquor so kept;
(11) Prescribing the conditions and qualifications requisite for the obtaining of club licenses and the books and records to be kept and the returns to be made by clubs, prescribing the manner of licensing clubs in any municipality or other locality, and providing for the inspection of clubs;
(12) Subject to RCW 66.24.800, prescribing the conditions, accommodations, and qualifications requisite for the obtaining of licenses to sell beer, wines, and spirits, and regulating the sale of beer, wines, and spirits thereunder;
(13) Specifying and regulating the time and periods when, and the manner, methods and means by which manufacturers must deliver liquor within the state; and the time and periods when, and the manner, methods and means by which liquor may lawfully be conveyed or carried within the state;
(14) Providing for the making of returns by brewers of their sales of beer shipped within the state, or from the state, showing the gross amount of such sales and providing for the inspection of brewers' books and records, and for the checking of the accuracy of any such returns;
(15) Providing for the making of returns by the wholesalers of beer whose breweries are located beyond the boundaries of the state;
(16) Providing for the making of returns by any other liquor manufacturers, showing the gross amount of liquor produced or purchased, the amount sold within and exported from the state, and to whom so sold or exported, and providing for the inspection of the premises of any such liquor manufacturers, their books and records, and for the checking of any such return;
(17) Providing for the giving of fidelity bonds by any or all of the employees of the board. However, the premiums therefor must be paid by the board;
(18) Providing for the shipment of liquor to any person holding a permit and residing in any unit which has, by election pursuant to this title, prohibited the sale of liquor therein;
(19) Prescribing methods of manufacture, conditions of sanitation, standards of ingredients, quality and identity of alcoholic beverages manufactured, sold, bottled, or handled by licensees and the board; and conducting from time to time, in the interest of the public health and general welfare, scientific studies and research relating to alcoholic beverages and the use and effect thereof;
(20) Seizing, confiscating and destroying all alcoholic beverages manufactured, sold or offered for sale within this state which do not conform in all respects to the standards prescribed by this title or the regulations of the board. However, nothing herein contained may be construed as authorizing the board to prescribe, alter, limit or in any way change the present law as to the quantity or percentage of alcohol used in the manufacturing of wine or other alcoholic beverages;
(21) Monitoring and regulating the practices of license holders as necessary in order to prevent the theft and illegal trafficking of liquor pursuant to RCW 66.28.350; and
(22) Imposing reasonable requirements on licensees' operations of alcohol service areas and the sale, service, and consumption of alcohol, consistent with RCW 66.24.710 and 66.24.800.
[ 2025 c 361 s 5; 2014 c 63 s 2; 2012 c 2 s 204 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2002 c 119 s 2; 1977 ex.s. c 115 s 1; 1971 c 62 s 1; 1943 c 102 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 79; RRS s 7306-79. Formerly RCW 66.08.030 and 66.08.040. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—Expiration date—2025 c 361: See notes following RCW 66.24.800.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
PDFRCW 66.08.030
Regulations—Scope. (Effective December 31, 2027.)
The power of the board to make regulations under chapter 34.05 RCW extends to:
(1) Prescribing the duties of the employees of the board, and regulating their conduct in the discharge of their duties;
(2) Prescribing an official seal and official labels and stamps and determining the manner in which they must be attached to every package of liquor sold or sealed under this title, including the prescribing of different official seals or different official labels for different classes of liquor;
(3) Prescribing forms to be used for purposes of this title or the regulations, and the terms and conditions to be contained in permits and licenses issued under this title, and the qualifications for receiving a permit or license issued under this title, including a criminal history record information check. The board may submit the criminal history record information check to the Washington state patrol and to the identification division of the federal bureau of investigation in order that these agencies may search their records for prior arrests and convictions of the individual or individuals who filled out the forms. The board must require fingerprinting of any applicant whose criminal history record information check is submitted to the federal bureau of investigation;
(4) Prescribing the fees payable in respect of permits and licenses issued under this title for which no fees are prescribed in this title, and prescribing the fees for anything done or permitted to be done under the regulations;
(5) Prescribing the kinds and quantities of liquor which may be kept on hand by the holder of a special permit for the purposes named in the permit, regulating the manner in which the same is kept and disposed of, and providing for the inspection of the same at any time at the instance of the board;
(6) Regulating the sale of liquor kept by the holders of licenses which entitle the holder to purchase and keep liquor for sale;
(7) Prescribing the records of purchases or sales of liquor kept by the holders of licenses, and the reports to be made thereon to the board, and providing for inspection of the records so kept;
(8) Prescribing the kinds and quantities of liquor for which a prescription may be given, and the number of prescriptions which may be given to the same patient within a stated period;
(9) Prescribing the manner of giving and serving notices required by this title or the regulations, where not otherwise provided for in this title;
(10) Regulating premises in which liquor is kept for export from the state, or from which liquor is exported, prescribing the books and records to be kept therein and the reports to be made thereon to the board, and providing for the inspection of the premises and the books, records and the liquor so kept;
(11) Prescribing the conditions and qualifications requisite for the obtaining of club licenses and the books and records to be kept and the returns to be made by clubs, prescribing the manner of licensing clubs in any municipality or other locality, and providing for the inspection of clubs;
(12) Prescribing the conditions, accommodations, and qualifications requisite for the obtaining of licenses to sell beer, wines, and spirits, and regulating the sale of beer, wines, and spirits thereunder;
(13) Specifying and regulating the time and periods when, and the manner, methods and means by which manufacturers must deliver liquor within the state; and the time and periods when, and the manner, methods and means by which liquor may lawfully be conveyed or carried within the state;
(14) Providing for the making of returns by brewers of their sales of beer shipped within the state, or from the state, showing the gross amount of such sales and providing for the inspection of brewers' books and records, and for the checking of the accuracy of any such returns;
(15) Providing for the making of returns by the wholesalers of beer whose breweries are located beyond the boundaries of the state;
(16) Providing for the making of returns by any other liquor manufacturers, showing the gross amount of liquor produced or purchased, the amount sold within and exported from the state, and to whom so sold or exported, and providing for the inspection of the premises of any such liquor manufacturers, their books and records, and for the checking of any such return;
(17) Providing for the giving of fidelity bonds by any or all of the employees of the board. However, the premiums therefor must be paid by the board;
(18) Providing for the shipment of liquor to any person holding a permit and residing in any unit which has, by election pursuant to this title, prohibited the sale of liquor therein;
(19) Prescribing methods of manufacture, conditions of sanitation, standards of ingredients, quality and identity of alcoholic beverages manufactured, sold, bottled, or handled by licensees and the board; and conducting from time to time, in the interest of the public health and general welfare, scientific studies and research relating to alcoholic beverages and the use and effect thereof;
(20) Seizing, confiscating and destroying all alcoholic beverages manufactured, sold or offered for sale within this state which do not conform in all respects to the standards prescribed by this title or the regulations of the board. However, nothing herein contained may be construed as authorizing the *liquor board to prescribe, alter, limit or in any way change the present law as to the quantity or percentage of alcohol used in the manufacturing of wine or other alcoholic beverages;
(21) Monitoring and regulating the practices of license holders as necessary in order to prevent the theft and illegal trafficking of liquor pursuant to RCW 66.28.350.
[ 2014 c 63 s 2; 2012 c 2 s 204 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2002 c 119 s 2; 1977 ex.s. c 115 s 1; 1971 c 62 s 1; 1943 c 102 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 79; RRS s 7306-79. Formerly RCW 66.08.030 and 66.08.040.]
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the board must increase by 50 percent the license, permit, or endorsement fee for any liquor license, permit, or endorsement in which the amount of such fee is determined by the board in rule.
(2) The board must increase the fee set pursuant to RCW 66.20.010(3) to $25.
[ 2025 c 343 s 53. ]
The board, subject to the provisions of this title and the rules, must:
(1) Determine the nature, form and capacity of all packages to be used for containing liquor kept for sale under this title;
(2) Execute or cause to be executed, all contracts, papers, and documents in the name of the board, under such regulations as the board may fix;
(3) Pay all customs, duties, excises, charges and obligations whatsoever relating to the business of the board;
(4) Require bonds from all employees in the discretion of the board, and to determine the amount of fidelity bond of each such employee;
(5) Perform services for the state lottery commission to such extent, and for such compensation, as may be mutually agreed upon between the board and the commission;
(6) Accept and deposit into the general fund-local account and disburse, subject to appropriation, federal grants or other funds or donations from any source for the purpose of improving public awareness of the health risks associated with alcohol and cannabis consumption by youth and the abuse of alcohol and cannabis by adults in Washington state. The board's alcohol awareness program must cooperate with federal and state agencies, interested organizations, and individuals to effect an active public beverage alcohol awareness program. For the purposes of this subsection, "cannabis" has the meaning provided in RCW 69.50.101;
(7) Monitor and regulate the practices of licensees as necessary in order to prevent the theft and illegal trafficking of liquor pursuant to RCW 66.28.350;
(8) Perform all other matters and things, whether similar to the foregoing or not, to carry out the provisions of this title, and has full power to do each and every act necessary to the conduct of its regulatory functions, including all supplies procurement, preparation and approval of forms, and every other undertaking necessary to perform its regulatory functions whatsoever, subject only to audit by the state auditor. However, the board has no authority to regulate the content of spoken language on licensed premises where wine and other liquors are served and where there is not a clear and present danger of disorderly conduct being provoked by such language or to restrict advertising of lawful prices.
[ 2022 c 16 s 46; 2015 2nd sp.s. c 4 s 601; 2014 c 63 s 3; 2012 c 2 s 107 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); (2011 1st sp.s. c 45 s 7 repealed by 2012 c 2 s 216 (Initiative Measure No. 1183)); (2011 c 186 s 2 expired December 1, 2012); 2005 c 151 s 3; 1997 c 228 s 1; 1993 c 25 s 1; 1986 c 214 s 2; 1983 c 160 s 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 1; 1969 ex.s. c 178 s 1; 1963 c 239 s 3; 1935 c 174 s 10; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 69; RRS s 7306-69. ]
NOTES:
Intent—Finding—2022 c 16: See note following RCW 69.50.101.
Findings—Intent—Effective dates—2015 2nd sp.s. c 4: See notes following RCW 69.50.334.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Spirit sampling—Liquor store pilot project—2011 c 186: "(1) The liquor control board shall establish a pilot project to allow spirits sampling in state liquor stores as defined in *RCW 66.16.010 and contract stores as defined in RCW 66.04.010(11) for the purpose of promoting the sponsor's products. For purposes of this section, "sponsors" means: A domestic distiller licensed under RCW 66.24.140 or an accredited representative of a distiller, manufacturer, importer, or distributor of spirituous liquor licensed under RCW 66.24.310.
(a) The pilot project shall consist of thirty locations with at least six samplings to be conducted at each location between September 1, 2011, and September 1, 2012. However, no state liquor store or contract store may hold more than one spirits sampling per week during the project period.
(b) The pilot project locations shall be determined by the board. Before the board determines which state liquor stores or contract stores will be eligible to participate in the sampling pilot, it shall give:
(i) Due consideration to the location of the state liquor store or contract store with respect to the proximity of places of worship, schools, and public institutions;
(ii) Due consideration to motor vehicle accident data in the proximity of the state liquor store or contract store; and
(iii) Written notice by certified mail of the proposed spirits sampling to places of worship, schools, and public institutions within five hundred feet of the liquor store proposed to offer spirits sampling.
(c) Sampling must be conducted under the following conditions:
(i) Sampling may take place only in an area of a state liquor store or contract store in which access to persons under twenty-one years of age is prohibited;
(ii) Samples may be provided free of charge;
(iii) Only persons twenty-one years of age or over may sample spirits;
(iv) Each sample must be one-quarter ounce or less, with no more than one ounce of samples provided per person per day;
(v) Only sponsors may serve samples;
(vi) Any person involved in the serving of such samples must have completed a mandatory alcohol server training program;
(vii) No person who is apparently intoxicated may sample spirits;
(viii) The product provided for sampling must be available for sale at the state liquor store or contract store where the sampling occurs at the time of the sampling; and
(ix) Customers must remain on the state liquor store or contract store premise while consuming samples.
(d) The liquor control board may prohibit sampling at a pilot project location that is within the boundaries of an alcohol impact area recognized by resolution of the board if the board finds that the sampling activities at the location are having an adverse effect on the reduction of chronic public inebriation in the area.
(e) All other criteria needed to establish and monitor the pilot project shall be determined by the board.
(f) The board shall report on the pilot project to the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 1, 2012. The board's report shall include the results of a survey of liquor store managers and contract liquor store managers.
(2) The liquor control board may adopt rules to implement this section." [ 2011 c 186 s 1.]
*Reviser's note: RCW 66.16.010 was repealed by 2012 c 2 s 215 (Initiative Measure No. 1183).
Expiration date—2011 c 186: "This act expires December 1, 2012." [ 2011 c 186 s 5.]
Severability—1975 1st ex.s. c 173: "If any phrase, clause, subsection, or section of this 1975 amendatory act shall be declared unconstitutional or invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, it shall be conclusively presumed that the legislature would have enacted this 1975 amendatory act without the phrase, clause, subsection, or section so held unconstitutional or invalid and the remainder of the act shall not be affected as a result of said part being held unconstitutional or invalid." [ 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 13.]
Effective date—1975 1st ex.s. c 173: "This 1975 amendatory act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1975." [ 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 14.]
Severability—1963 c 239: See note following RCW 66.08.026.
Minors, access to tobacco, role of liquor and cannabis board: Chapter 70.155 RCW.
The *liquor control board may adopt appropriate rules pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of chapter 321, Laws of 1997.
[ 1997 c 321 s 56. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Every member of the board, and every employee authorized by the board to issue permits under this title may administer any oath and take and receive any affidavit or declaration required under this title or the regulations.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 80; RRS s 7306-80. Formerly RCW 43.66.050. ]
The board has power to adopt any and all reasonable rules as to the kind, character, and location of advertising of liquor.
[ 2012 c 2 s 108 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2005 c 231 s 3; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 43; RRS s 7306-43. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
The board must consider revising current rules in order to provide greater flexibility regarding food service menu requirements that businesses holding a license issued by the board under Title 66 RCW must provide in conjunction with alcohol sales. This subsection [section] does not apply to licensees that were not required to provide food service under rules in effect on January 1, 2020. The purpose of this subsection [section] is to ease food menu requirements to make it more feasible financially for licensees to comply with the board's food service requirements but not replace food safety requirements in rule adopted by the department of health in chapter 246-215 WAC.
[ 2021 c 48 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 48: "The COVID-19 pandemic that arrived in Washington in 2020 led to historic economic disruptions and devastating health impacts in the state. In an effort to assist businesses and employees whose assets and livelihoods have been impacted by the strategies used to protect the public's health, the legislature finds that steps must be taken in the public interest to support the most severely impacted industries. The hospitality industry has suffered some of the most devastating impacts of any sector of the state's economy. The legislature finds that assisting this sector of the state's economy to survive and recover from the effects of the pandemic and the steps taken to combat its spread are an urgent priority that is in the best interests of the state and its residents. The legislature intends that these revisions at the same time continue to promote regulation of an orderly market for liquor sales while maintaining protection of public health and efficient collection of taxes and fees." [ 2021 c 48 s 1.]
Expiration of temporary authorization—Customer identification—2021 c 48: "Except as provided in section 2(9), chapter 48, Laws of 2021, any temporary authorization or relaxation of requirements provided by the Washington state liquor and cannabis board, in effect on April 14, 2021, related to authorizing the photographing or scanning of customer identification in lieu of obtaining a physical signature to document liquor product delivery or verify the age of customers, expires at the end of the governor's proclamation of emergency related to COVID-19." [ 2021 c 48 s 8.]
Expiration of temporary authorization—Food requirements—2021 c 48: "Any temporary authorization or relaxation of statutory requirements provided by the Washington state liquor and cannabis board related to food requirements associated with wine and beer sampling at farmers markets expires at the end of the governor's proclamation of emergency related to COVID-19." [ 2021 c 48 s 9.]
Effective date—2021 c 48: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 14, 2021]." [ 2021 c 48 s 10.]
Tax preference performance statement and expiration exemption—2021 c 48: See note following RCW 82.08.150.
Except as provided by chapter 42.52 RCW, no member of the board and no employee of the board shall have any interest, directly or indirectly, in the manufacture of liquor or in any liquor sold under this title, or derive any profit or remuneration from the sale of liquor, other than the salary or wages payable to him or her in respect of his or her office or position, and shall receive no gratuity from any person in connection with such business.
[ 2012 c 117 s 268; 1994 c 154 s 313; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 3; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 68; RRS s 7306-68. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1994 c 154: See RCW 42.52.904.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
No employee shall sell liquor in any other place, nor at any other time, nor otherwise than as authorized by the board under this title and the regulations.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 31; RRS s 7306-31. ]
The *liquor control board may provide liquor at no charge, including liquor forfeited under chapter 66.32 RCW, to recognized law enforcement agencies within the state when the law enforcement agency will be using the liquor for bona fide law enforcement training or investigation purposes.
[ 1993 c 26 s 3. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
No court of the state of Washington other than the superior court of Thurston county shall have jurisdiction over any action or proceeding against the board or any member thereof for anything done or omitted to be done in or arising out of the performance of his or her or their duties under this title. Neither the board nor any member or members thereof shall be personally liable in any action at law for damages sustained by any person because of any acts performed or done or omitted to be done by the board or any employee of the board in the performance of his or her duties and in the administration of this title or chapter 69.50 or 69.51A RCW.
[ 2017 c 317 s 4; 2012 c 117 s 269; 1935 c 174 s 9 (adding new section 62-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-62A. Formerly RCW 66.08.100 and 66.08.110. ]
NOTES:
Findings—Application—2017 c 317: See notes following RCW 69.50.325.
No municipality or county shall have power to license the sale of, or impose an excise tax upon, liquor as defined in this title, or to license the sale or distribution thereof in any manner; and any power now conferred by law on any municipality or county to license premises which may be licensed under this section, or to impose an excise tax upon liquor, or to license the sale and distribution thereof, as defined in this title, shall be suspended and shall be of no further effect: PROVIDED, That municipalities and counties shall have power to adopt police ordinances and regulations not in conflict with this title or with the regulations made by the board.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 29; RRS s 7306-29. ]
For the purpose of obtaining information concerning any matter relating to the administration or enforcement of this title, the board, or any person appointed by it in writing for the purpose, may inspect the books and records of
(1) any manufacturer;
(2) any license holder;
(3) any drug store holding a permit to sell on prescriptions;
(4) the freight and express books and records and all waybills, bills of lading, receipts and documents in the possession of any common carrier doing business within the state, containing any information or record relating to any goods shipped or carried, or consigned or received for shipment or carriage within the state. Every manufacturer, license holder, drug store holding a permit to sell on prescriptions, and common carrier, and every owner or officer or employee of the foregoing, who neglects or refuses to produce and submit for inspection any book, record or document referred to in this section when requested to do so by the board or by a person so appointed by it shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
[ 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 4; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 56; RRS s 7306-56. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
For the purpose of obtaining information concerning any matter relating to the administration or enforcement of this title, the board, or any person appointed by it in writing for the purpose, may inspect the books, documents and records of any person lending money to or in any manner financing any license, holder or applicant for license insofar as such books, documents and/or records pertain to the financial transaction involved. Every person who neglects or refuses to produce and submit for inspection any book, record or document as required by this section when requested to do so by the board or by a person duly appointed by it shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
[ 1945 c 48 s 1 (adding new section 56-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-56A. ]
(1) The liquor and cannabis board may issue subpoenas in connection with any investigation, hearing, or proceeding for the production of books, records, and documents held under this chapter or chapters 70.155, 70.158, 70.345, 82.24, 82.26, and 82.25 RCW, and books and records of common carriers as defined in RCW 81.80.010, or vehicle rental agencies relating to the transportation or possession of cigarettes, vapor products, or other tobacco products.
(2) The liquor and cannabis board may designate individuals authorized to sign subpoenas.
(3) If any person is served a subpoena from the board for the production of records, documents, and books, and fails or refuses to obey the subpoena for the production of records, documents, and books when required to do so, the person is subject to proceedings for contempt, and the board may institute contempt of court proceedings in the superior court of Thurston county or in the county in which the person resides.
[ 2019 c 445 s 201; 2016 sp.s. c 38 s 29; 2007 c 221 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Conflict with federal requirements—Effective date—2019 c 445: See RCW 82.25.900 and 82.25.901.
Automatic expiration date and tax preference performance statement exemption—2019 c 445: See note following RCW 82.08.0318.
The action, order, or decision of the board as to any denial of an application for the reissuance of a permit or license or as to any revocation, suspension, or modification of any permit or license must be an adjudicative proceeding and subject to the applicable provisions of chapter 34.05 RCW.
(1) An opportunity for a hearing may be provided an applicant for the reissuance of a permit or license prior to the disposition of the application, and if no such opportunity for a prior hearing is provided then an opportunity for a hearing to reconsider the application must be provided the applicant.
(2) An opportunity for a hearing must be provided a permittee or licensee prior to a revocation or modification of any permit or license and, except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, prior to the suspension of any permit or license.
(3) No hearing may be required until demanded by the applicant, permittee, or licensee.
(4) The board may summarily suspend a license or permit for a period of up to one hundred eighty days without a prior hearing if it finds that public health, safety, or welfare imperatively require emergency action, and it incorporates a finding to that effect in its order. Proceedings for revocation or other action must be promptly instituted and determined. An administrative law judge may extend the summary suspension period for up to one calendar year in the event the proceedings for revocation or other action cannot be completed during the initial one hundred eighty day period due to actions by the licensee or permittee. The board's enforcement division must complete a preliminary staff investigation of the violation before requesting an emergency suspension by the board.
(5) The issues that may be considered at a hearing to contest a suspension of a license or the denial of an application for a new license or renewal of an existing license, under RCW 66.24.010(3)(c), do not include the right to challenge the amount of any spirits taxes assessed against the licensee or applicant by the department of revenue. For purposes of this subsection, "spirits taxes" has the same meaning as in RCW 82.08.155.
[ 2012 c 39 s 5; 2007 c 370 s 3; 2003 c 320 s 1; 1989 c 175 s 122; 1967 c 237 s 23; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 62; RRS s 7306-62. ]
NOTES:
Construction—Effective date—2012 c 39: See notes following RCW 82.08.155.
Effective date—1989 c 175: See note following RCW 34.05.010.
There shall be a fund, known as the "liquor revolving fund," which shall consist of all license fees, permit fees, penalties, forfeitures, and all other moneys, income, or revenue received by the board. The state treasurer shall be custodian of the fund. All moneys received by the board or any employee thereof, except for change funds and an amount of petty cash as fixed by the board within the authority of law shall be deposited each day in a depository approved by the state treasurer and transferred to the state treasurer to be credited to the liquor revolving fund. During the 2009-2011 fiscal biennium, the legislature may transfer funds from the liquor revolving account [fund] to the state general fund and may direct an additional amount of liquor profits to be distributed to local governments. Neither the transfer of funds nor the additional distribution of liquor profits to local governments during the 2009-2011 fiscal biennium may reduce the excess fund distributions that otherwise would occur under RCW 66.08.190. During the 2011-2013 fiscal biennium, the state treasurer shall transfer from the liquor revolving fund to the state general fund forty-two million five hundred thousand dollars for fiscal year 2012 and forty-two million five hundred thousand dollars for fiscal year 2013. The transfer during the 2011-2013 fiscal biennium may not reduce the excess fund distributions that otherwise would occur under RCW 66.08.190. Sales to licensees are exempt from any liquor price increases that may result from the transfer of funds from the liquor revolving fund to the state general fund during the 2011-2013 fiscal biennium. Disbursements from the revolving fund shall be on authorization of the board or a duly authorized representative thereof. During the 2017-2019 fiscal biennium, the legislature may also appropriate from the account for local government studies. In order to maintain an effective expenditure and revenue control the liquor revolving fund shall be subject in all respects to chapter 43.88 RCW but no appropriation shall be required to permit expenditures and payment of obligations from such fund. During the 2013-2015 and 2015-2017 fiscal biennia, the legislature may transfer from the liquor revolving fund to the state general fund such amounts as reflect the excess fund balance of the account.
[ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 1 s 978; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 4 s 966; 2011 1st sp.s. c 50 s 959; 2009 c 564 s 947; 2002 c 371 s 917; 1961 ex.s. c 6 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 73; RRS s 7306-73. Formerly RCW 43.66.060. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 1: See note following RCW 43.41.455.
Effective dates—2015 3rd sp.s. c 4: See note following RCW 28B.15.069.
Effective dates—2011 1st sp.s. c 50: See note following RCW 15.76.115.
Effective date—2009 c 564: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Severability—Effective date—2002 c 371: See notes following RCW 9.46.100.
Transfer of liquor revolving fund to state treasurer—Outstanding obligations: "On June 30, 1961, the Washington state liquor control board shall deliver and transfer to the state treasurer, as custodian, all moneys and accounts which comprise the liquor revolving fund, except change funds and petty cash, and the state treasurer shall assume custody thereof. All obligations outstanding as of June 30, 1961 shall be paid out of the liquor revolving fund." [ 1961 ex.s. c 6 s 5.]
Effective date—1961 ex.s. c 6: "This act shall take effect on June 30, 1961." [ 1961 ex.s. c 6 s 7.]
Except as provided in RCW 66.24.290(1), moneys in the liquor revolving fund shall be distributed by the board at least once every three months in accordance with RCW 66.08.190, 66.08.200 and 66.08.210. However, the board shall reserve from distribution such amount not exceeding five hundred thousand dollars as may be necessary for the proper administration of this title.
(1) All license fees, penalties, and forfeitures derived under chapter 13, Laws of 1935 from spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; hotel; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; spirits, beer, and wine VIP airport lounge; and sports entertainment facility licenses shall every three months be disbursed by the board as follows:
(a) Three hundred thousand dollars per biennium, to the death investigations account for the state toxicology program pursuant to RCW 68.50.107; and
(b) Of the remaining funds:
(i) 6.06 percent to the University of Washington and 4.04 percent to Washington State University for alcoholism and drug abuse research and for the dissemination of such research; and
(ii) 89.9 percent to the general fund to be used by the health care authority solely to carry out the purposes of RCW 71.24.535;
(2) The first fifty-five dollars per license fee provided in RCW 66.24.320 and 66.24.330 up to a maximum of one hundred fifty thousand dollars annually shall be disbursed every three months by the board to the general fund to be used for juvenile alcohol and drug prevention programs for kindergarten through third grade to be administered by the superintendent of public instruction;
(3) Twenty percent of the remaining total amount derived from license fees pursuant to RCW 66.24.320, 66.24.330, 66.24.350, and 66.24.360, shall be transferred to the general fund to be used by the health care authority solely to carry out the purposes of RCW 71.24.535; and
(4) One-fourth cent per liter of the tax imposed by RCW 66.24.210 shall every three months be disbursed by the board to Washington State University solely for wine and wine grape research, extension programs related to wine and wine grape research, and resident instruction in both wine grape production and the processing aspects of the wine industry in accordance with RCW 28B.30.068. The director of financial management shall prescribe suitable accounting procedures to ensure that the funds transferred to the general fund to be used by the department of social and health services and appropriated are separately accounted for.
[ 2019 c 325 s 5018; 2011 c 325 s 7; 2009 c 271 s 3; 2007 c 370 s 14; 2000 c 192 s 1. Prior: 1999 c 281 s 1; 1999 c 40 s 7; prior: 1997 c 451 s 3; 1997 c 321 s 57; 1995 c 398 s 16; 1987 c 458 s 10; 1986 c 87 s 1; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 6; 1979 c 151 s 166; 1967 ex.s. c 75 s 1; 1965 ex.s. c 143 s 2; 1949 c 5 s 10; 1935 c 13 s 2; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 77; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-77. Formerly RCW 43.66.080. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2019 c 325: See note following RCW 71.24.011.
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1999 c 40: See note following RCW 43.103.010.
Effective date—1997 c 451: See note following RCW 66.24.290.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Severability—1987 c 458: See note following RCW 48.21.160.
Effective date—1986 c 87: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1987." [ 1986 c 87 s 3.]
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective date—1967 ex.s. c 75: "The effective date of this 1967 amendatory act is July 1, 1967." [ 1967 ex.s. c 75 s 8.]
Distribution for state toxicological lab: RCW 68.50.107.
Wine grape industry, instruction relating to—Purpose—Administration: RCW 28B.30.067 and 28B.30.068.
(1) Prior to making distributions described in subsection (2) of this section, amounts must be retained to support allotments under RCW 43.88.110 from any legislative appropriation for municipal research and services. The legislative appropriation for such services must be in the amount specified under RCW 66.24.065.
(2) When excess funds are distributed during the months of June, September, December, and March of each year, all moneys subject to distribution must be disbursed to border areas, counties, cities, and towns as provided in RCW 66.24.065.
(3) The amount remaining after distributions under subsections (1) and (2) of this section must be deposited into the general fund.
[ 2012 2nd sp.s. c 5 s 8; 2011 1st sp.s. c 50 s 960; 2003 1st sp.s. c 25 s 927; 2002 c 38 s 2; 2000 c 227 s 2; 1995 c 159 s 1; 1991 sp.s. c 32 s 34; 1988 c 229 s 4; 1957 c 175 s 6. Prior: 1955 c 109 s 2; 1949 c 187 s 1, part; 1939 c 173 s 1, part; 1937 c 62 s 2, part; 1935 c 80 s 1, part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 78, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-78, part. Formerly RCW 43.66.090. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2012 2nd sp.s. c 5: See note following RCW 82.08.160.
Effective dates—2011 1st sp.s. c 50: See note following RCW 15.76.115.
Severability—Effective date—2003 1st sp.s. c 25: See notes following RCW 19.28.351.
Effective date—2000 c 227: See note following RCW 43.110.030.
Effective date—1995 c 159: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1995." [ 1995 c 159 s 6.]
Section headings not law—1991 sp.s. c 32: See RCW 36.70A.902.
Finding—1988 c 229: "The legislature finds and declares that certain counties and municipalities near international borders are subjected to a constant volume and flow of travelers and visitors for whom local government services must be provided. The legislature further finds that it is in the public interest and for the protection of the health, property, and welfare of the residents and visitors to provide supplemental resources to augment and maintain existing levels of police protection in such areas and to alleviate the impact of such added burdens." [ 1988 c 229 s 2.]
Effective date—1988 c 229 ss 2-4: "Sections 2 through 4 of this act shall take effect July 1, 1989." [ 1988 c 229 s 5.]
For the purposes of this chapter:
(1) "Border area" means any incorporated city or town, or unincorporated area, located within seven miles of the Washington-Canadian border or any unincorporated area that is a point of land surrounded on three sides by salt water and adjacent to the Canadian border.
(2) "Border area per-capita law-enforcement spending" equals total per capita expenditures in a border area on: Law enforcement operating costs, court costs, law enforcement-related insurance, and detention expenses, minus funds allocated to a border area under RCW 66.08.190 and 66.08.196.
(3) "Border-crossing traffic total" means the number of vehicles, vessels, and aircraft crossing into the United States through a United States customs service border crossing that enter into the border area during a federal fiscal year, using border crossing statistics and criteria included in guidelines adopted by the department of commerce.
(4) "Border-related crime statistic" means the sum of infractions and citations issued, and arrests of persons permanently residing outside Washington state in a border area during a calendar year.
[ 2023 c 470 s 2109; 2001 c 8 s 1; 1995 c 159 s 2; 1988 c 229 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2023 c 470: See note following RCW 10.99.030.
Effective date—1995 c 159: See note following RCW 66.08.190.
Finding—Effective date—1988 c 229: See notes following RCW 66.08.190.
(1) Distribution of funds to border areas under RCW 66.08.190 and 66.24.290 (1)(c) and (4) is as follows:
(a) Sixty-five percent of the funds must be distributed to border areas ratably based on border area traffic totals;
(b) Twenty-five percent of the funds must be distributed to border areas ratably based on border-related crime statistics; and
(c) Ten percent of the funds must be distributed to border areas ratably based upon border area per capita law enforcement spending.
(2) Distributions to an unincorporated area must be made to the county in which such an area is located and may only be spent on services provided to that area.
[ 2012 2nd sp.s. c 5 s 9; 2001 c 8 s 2; 1997 c 451 s 4; 1995 c 159 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2012 2nd sp.s. c 5: See note following RCW 82.08.160.
Effective date—1997 c 451: See note following RCW 66.24.290.
Effective date—1995 c 159: See note following RCW 66.08.190.
The department of commerce shall develop guidelines to determine the figures used under the three distribution factors defined in RCW 66.08.195. At the request of any border community, the department may review these guidelines once every three years.
[ 2023 c 470 s 2110; 1995 c 159 s 4. ]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2023 c 470: See note following RCW 10.99.030.
Effective date—1995 c 159: See note following RCW 66.08.190.
With respect to the distribution of funds to the counties, the computations for distribution must be made by the state agency responsible for collecting the same as follows:
(1) The share coming to each eligible county must be determined by a division among the eligible counties according to the relation which the population of the unincorporated area of such eligible county, as last determined by the office of financial management, bears to the population of the total combined unincorporated areas of all eligible counties, as determined by the office of financial management. However, no county in which the sale of liquor is forbidden in the unincorporated area thereof as the result of an election is entitled to share in such distribution. "Unincorporated area" means all that portion of any county not included within the limits of incorporated cities and towns.
(2) When a special county census has been conducted for the purpose of determining the population base of a county's unincorporated area for use in the distribution of liquor funds, the census figure becomes effective for the purpose of distributing funds as of the official census date once the census results have been certified by the office of financial management and officially submitted to the office of the secretary of state.
[ 2012 2nd sp.s. c 5 s 10; 1979 c 151 s 167; 1977 ex.s. c 110 s 2; 1957 c 175 s 7. Prior: 1955 c 109 s 3; 1949 c 187 s 1, part; 1939 c 173 s 1, part; 1937 c 62 s 2, part; 1935 c 80 s 1, part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 78, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-78, part. Formerly RCW 43.66.100. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2012 2nd sp.s. c 5: See note following RCW 82.08.160.
Population determinations, office of financial management: Chapter 43.62 RCW.
(1) With respect to the distribution of funds to the incorporated cities and towns under RCW 66.24.290(1)(c), the computations for distribution must be made by the state agency responsible for collecting the same as provided in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) The share coming to each eligible city or town must be determined by a division among the eligible cities and towns within the state ratably on the basis of population as last determined by the office of financial management. However, no city or town in which the sale of liquor is forbidden as the result of an election is entitled to any share in such distribution.
[ 2012 2nd sp.s. c 5 s 11; 1979 c 151 s 168; 1977 ex.s. c 110 s 3; 1957 c 175 s 8. Prior: 1949 c 187 s 1, part; 1939 c 173 s 1, part; 1937 c 62 s 2, part; 1935 c 80 s 1, part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 78, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-78, part. Formerly RCW 43.66.110. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2012 2nd sp.s. c 5: See note following RCW 82.08.160.
Allocation of state funds on population basis: RCW 43.62.020, 43.62.030.
Determining population of territory annexed to city: RCW 35.13.260.
Funds that are distributed to counties, cities, or towns pursuant to this chapter may be transferred by the recipient county, city, or town to another unit of government pursuant to a government service agreement as provided in RCW 36.115.040 and 36.115.050.
[ 1994 c 266 s 10. ]
Nothing in this title, other than RCW 66.28.140, applies to wine or beer manufactured in any home for private consumption, and not for sale.
[ 2009 c 360 s 1; 1981 c 255 s 1; 1955 c 39 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 32; RRS s 7306-32. ]
(1) Nothing in this title shall prevent any person licensed to manufacture liquor from keeping liquor in his or her warehouse or place of business.
(2) Nothing in this title shall prevent the transshipment of liquor in interstate and foreign commerce; but no person shall import liquor into the state from any other state or country, except, as herein otherwise provided, for use or sale in the state, except the board.
(3) Every provision of this title which may affect transactions in liquor between a person in this state and a person in another state or in a foreign country shall be construed to affect such transactions so far only as the legislature has power to make laws in relation thereto.
[ 2012 c 117 s 270; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 49; RRS s 7306-49. Formerly RCW 66.12.030, 66.12.040, and 66.12.050. ]
Nothing in this title shall apply to or prevent the sale, purchase or consumption
(1) of any pharmaceutical preparation containing liquor which is prepared by a druggist according to a formula of the pharmacopoeia of the United States, or the dispensatory of the United States; or
(2) of any proprietary or patent medicine; or
(3) of wood alcohol or denatured alcohol, except in the case of the sale, purchase, or consumption of wood alcohol or denatured alcohol for beverage purposes, either alone or combined with any other liquid or substance.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 50; RRS s 7306-50. ]
(1) Where a medicinal preparation contains liquor as one of the necessary ingredients thereof, and also contains sufficient medication to prevent its use as an alcoholic beverage, nothing in this title shall apply to or prevent its composition or sale by a druggist when compounded from liquor purchased by the druggist under a special permit held by him or her, nor apply to or prevent the purchase or consumption of the preparation by any person for strictly medicinal purposes.
(2) Where a toilet or culinary preparation, that is to say, any perfume, lotion, or flavoring extract or essence, or dietary supplement as defined by the federal food and drug administration, contains liquor and also contains sufficient ingredient or medication to prevent its use as a beverage, nothing in this title shall apply to or prevent the sale or purchase of that preparation by any druggist or other person who manufactures or deals in the preparation, nor apply to or prevent the purchase or consumption of the preparation by any person who purchases or consumes it for any toilet or culinary purpose.
(3) In order to determine whether any particular medicinal, toilet, dietary supplement, or culinary preparation referred to in this section contains sufficient ingredient or medication to prevent its use as an alcoholic beverage, the board may cause a sample of the preparation, purchased or obtained from any person whomsoever, to be analyzed by an analyst appointed or designated by the board; and if it appears from a certificate signed by the analyst that he or she finds the sample so analyzed by him or her did not contain sufficient ingredient or medication to prevent its use as an alcoholic beverage, the certificate shall be conclusive evidence that the preparation, the sample of which was so analyzed, is not a preparation the sale or purchase of which is permitted by this section.
(4) Dietary supplements that contain more than one-half of one percent alcohol which are prepared and sold under this section shall be clearly labeled and the ingredients listed on the label in accordance with the provisions of the federal food, drug, and cosmetics act (21 U.S.C. Sec. 321) as now or hereafter amended.
[ 2012 c 117 s 271; 1999 c 88 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 51; RRS s 7306-51. Formerly RCW 66.12.070, 66.12.080, and 66.12.090. ]
A person twenty-one years of age or over may bring into the state from without the United States, free of tax and markup, for his or her personal or household use such alcoholic beverages as have been declared and permitted to enter the United States duty free under federal law.
Such entry of alcoholic beverages in excess of that herein provided may be authorized by the board upon payment of an equivalent tax as would be applicable to the purchase of the same or similar liquor at retail in this state. The board must adopt appropriate regulations pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this section. The board may issue a spirits, beer, and wine private club license to a charitable or nonprofit corporation of the state of Washington, the majority of the officers and directors of which are United States citizens and the minority of the officers and directors of which are citizens of the Dominion of Canada, and where the location of the premises for such spirits, beer, and wine private club license is not more than ten miles south of the border between the United States and the province of British Columbia.
[ 2016 c 235 s 3; 2012 c 117 s 272; 1999 c 281 s 3; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 20 s 1. Prior: 1975 1st ex.s. c 256 s 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 2; 1967 c 38 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1975 1st ex.s. c 173: See notes following RCW 66.08.050.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, a person twenty-one years of age or over may, free of tax, for personal or household use, bring into the state of Washington from another state no more than once per calendar month up to two liters of spirits or wine or two hundred eighty-eight ounces of beer. Additionally, such person may be authorized by the board to bring into the state of Washington from another state a reasonable amount of alcoholic beverages in excess of that provided in this section for personal or household use only upon payment of an equivalent tax as would be applicable to the purchase of the same or similar liquor at retail in this state. The board must adopt appropriate regulations pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW for the purpose of carrying into effect the provisions of this section.
[ 2016 c 235 s 4; 1995 c 100 s 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1975 1st ex.s. c 173: See notes following RCW 66.08.050.
The legislature finds that the production of alcohol for use as a fuel or fuel supplement is of great importance to the state. Alcohol, when used as a fuel source, is less polluting to the atmosphere than conventional fuels and its use reduces the state's dependence on limited oil resources. Production of alcohol for use as a fuel provides a new use and market for Washington agricultural products and aids Washington farmers in producing food and fiber for the citizens of the state, nation, and world. Therefore, the legislature declares public policy to be one of encouragement toward the production and use of alcohol as a fuel or fuel supplement.
[ 1980 c 140 s 1. ]
Nothing in this title shall apply to or prevent the sale, importation, purchase, production, or blending of alcohol used solely for fuel to be used in motor vehicles, farm implements, and machines or implements of husbandry or in combination with gasoline or other petroleum products for use as such fuel. Manufacturers and distillers of such alcohol fuel are not required to obtain a license under this title. Alcohol which is produced for use as fuel shall be denatured in accordance with a formula approved by the federal bureau of alcohol, tobacco and firearms prior to the removal of the alcohol from the premises as described in the approved federal permit application: PROVIDED, That alcohol which is being transferred between plants involved in the distillation or manufacture of alcohol fuel need not be denatured if it is transferred in accordance with federal bureau of alcohol, tobacco and firearms regulation 27 C.F.R. 19.996 as existing on July 26, 1981. The exemptions from the state liquor control laws provided by this section only apply to distillers and manufacturers of alcohol to be used solely for fuel as long as the manufacturers and distillers are the holders of an appropriate permit issued under federal law.
[ 1981 c 179 s 1; 1980 c 140 s 2. ]
(1) Nothing in this title shall prevent the use of beer, wine, and/or spirituous liquor, for cooking purposes only, in conjunction with a culinary or restaurant course offered by a college, university, community college, area vocational technical institute, or private vocational school. Further, nothing in this title shall prohibit the making of beer or wine in food fermentation courses offered by a college, university, community college, area vocational technical institute, or private vocational school.
(2) "Culinary or restaurant course" as used in this section means a course of instruction which includes practical experience in food preparation under the supervision of an instructor who is twenty-one years of age or older.
(3) Persons under twenty-one years of age participating in culinary or restaurant courses may handle beer, wine, or spirituous liquor for purposes of participating in the courses, but nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize consumption of liquor by persons under twenty-one years of age or to authorize possession of liquor by persons under twenty-one years of age at any time or place other than while preparing food under the supervision of the course instructor.
(4) Beer, wine, and/or spirituous liquor to be used in culinary or restaurant courses shall be purchased at retail from the board or a retailer licensed under this title. All such liquor shall be securely stored in the food preparation area and shall not be displayed in an area open to the general public.
(5) Colleges, universities, community colleges, area vocational technical institutes, and private vocational schools shall obtain the prior written approval of the board for use of beer, wine, and/or spirituous liquor for cooking purposes in their culinary or restaurant courses.
[ 1982 c 85 s 8. ]
(1) Any person engaged in medical or dental pursuits, any person in charge of an institution regularly conducted as a hospital or sanatorium for the care of persons in ill health, or a home devoted exclusively to the care of aged persons, may obtain alcohol in a nonbeverage form directly from a supplier under a permit issued under RCW 66.20.010(1).
(2) Any person engaged in the mechanical or manufacturing business or in scientific pursuits requiring the use of alcohol may obtain alcohol in a nonbeverage form directly from a supplier under a permit issued under RCW 66.20.010(2).
[ 2008 c 64 s 1. ]
Nothing in this title shall apply to or prevent a hospital, as defined in *RCW 70.39.020, or a nursing home as defined in RCW 18.51.010, from offering or supplying without charge beer or wine by the individual glass to any patient, member of a patient's family, or patient visitor, for consumption on the premises: PROVIDED, That such patient, family member, or visitor shall be at least twenty-one years of age, and that the beer or wine shall be purchased under this title.
[ 1982 c 85 s 9. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 70.39.020 was repealed by 1982 c 223 s 10, effective June 30, 1990.
Nothing in this title shall apply to or prevent the manufacture or sale of confections or food products containing alcohol or liquor if: (1) The confection or food product does not contain more than one percent of alcohol by weight; and (2) the confection or food product has a label stating: "This product contains liquor and the alcohol content is one percent or less of the weight of the product." Manufacturers of confections or food products are not required to obtain a license under this title.
[ 1984 c 78 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Finding and declaration—1984 c 78: "The legislature finds that confectioners operating in the state are at an economic disadvantage due to a continued prohibition on the use of natural alcohol flavor in candies and that other related business entities, such as bakeries and delicatessens, may use natural alcohol flavors in the preparation of food for retail sale. Therefore, the legislature declares that the use of natural alcohol flavorings in an amount not to exceed the limit established in *RCW 69.04.240 presents no threat to the public health and safety." [ 1984 c 78 s 1.]
*Reviser's note: RCW 69.04.240 was repealed by 2018 c 236 s 801.
Severability—1984 c 78: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1984 c 78 s 7.]
Nothing in this title shall be construed as limiting the right of any manufacturer of confections or food products from obtaining liquor from any source whatsoever if: (1) It is acquired pursuant to a permit issued under RCW 66.20.010(5); and (2) the applicable taxes imposed by this title are paid.
[ 1984 c 78 s 4. ]
NOTES:
Finding and declaration—Severability—1984 c 78: See notes following RCW 66.12.160.
The Washington wine commission created under RCW 15.88.030 may purchase or receive donations of wine from wineries and may use such wine for promotional purposes. Wine furnished to the commission under this section which is used within the state is subject to the taxes imposed under RCW 66.24.210. No license, permit, or bond is required of the Washington wine commission under this title for promotional activities conducted under chapter 15.88 RCW.
[ 1993 c 160 s 1; 1987 c 452 s 14. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1993 c 160: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1993." [ 1993 c 160 s 3.]
Construction—Effective dates—1987 c 452: See RCW 15.88.900 and 15.88.901.
The Washington beer commission created under RCW 15.89.030 may purchase or receive donations of beer or malt beverages from any brewery, in any state, or in any country and may use such beer or malt beverages for any promotional purposes as outlined in RCW 15.89.070. Beer and malt beverages that are furnished to the commission under this section that are used within the state are subject to the taxes imposed under RCW 66.24.290. No license, permit, or bond is required of the Washington beer commission under this title for promotional activities conducted under chapter 15.89 RCW.
[ 2006 c 330 s 23. ]
NOTES:
Construction—2006 c 330: See RCW 15.89.900.
Nothing in this title shall apply to or prevent the legislative gift center created in chapter 44.73 RCW from selling at retail for off-premises consumption wine produced in Washington by a licensed domestic winery.
[ 2009 c 228 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2009 c 228: "The legislature finds that the production of wine grapes in the state is an important segment of Washington agriculture as evidenced by the continued investments made by the state in developing the wine industry, including the creation of viticulture and enology programs at Washington State University and wine technology programs at community and technical colleges. The legislature further finds that the promotion and sale of Washington wine at the legislative gift center is harmonious with the purpose of the gift center, which is to promote the state and the goods produced around the state. Therefore, the legislature intends to allow the legislative gift center to sell wine produced in Washington to visitors of legal drinking age." [ 2009 c 228 s 1.]
The Washington grain commission created under RCW 15.115.040 may purchase or receive donations of liquor produced from wheat or barley grown in Washington and may use the liquor for the promotional purposes specified in RCW 15.115.170(2). Liquor furnished to the commission under this section which is used within the state is subject to the taxes imposed under RCW 66.24.210. A license, permit, or bond is not required of the Washington grain commission under this title for the promotional purposes specified in RCW 15.115.170(2).
[ 2009 c 33 s 18. ]
(1) Nothing in this title applies to or prevents a wedding boutique or art gallery from offering or supplying without charge wine or beer by the individual glass to a customer for consumption on the premises. However, the customer must be at least twenty-one years of age and may only be offered one glass of wine or beer, and wine or beer served or consumed must be purchased from a Washington state licensed retailer at full retail price. A wedding boutique or art gallery offering wine or beer without charge may not advertise the service of complimentary wine or beer and may not sell wine or beer in any manner. Any employee involved in the service of wine or beer must complete a board-approved limited alcohol server training program.
(2) The definitions in this subsection apply throughout this section unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(a) "Art gallery" means a room or building devoted to the exhibition and/or sale of the works of art.
(b) "Wedding boutique" means a business primarily engaged in the sale of wedding merchandise.
[ 2016 c 235 s 5; 2009 c 361 s 1. ]
Upon application in the prescribed form being made to any employee authorized by the board to issue permits, accompanied by payment of the prescribed fee, and upon the employee being satisfied that the applicant should be granted a permit under this title, the employee must issue to the applicant under such regulations and at such fee as may be prescribed by the board a permit of the class applied for, as follows:
(1) Where the application is for a special permit by a physician or dentist, or by any person in charge of an institution regularly conducted as a hospital or sanatorium for the care of persons in ill health, or as a home devoted exclusively to the care of aged people, a special liquor purchase permit, except that the governor may waive the requirement for a special liquor purchase permit under this subsection pursuant to an order issued under RCW 43.06.220(2);
(2) Where the application is for a special permit by a person engaged within the state in mechanical or manufacturing business or in scientific pursuits requiring alcohol for use therein, or by any private individual, a special permit to purchase alcohol for the purpose named in the permit, except that the governor may waive the requirement for a special liquor purchase permit under this subsection pursuant to an order issued under RCW 43.06.220(2);
(3) Where the application is for a special permit to consume liquor at a banquet, at a specified date and place, a special permit to purchase liquor for consumption at such banquet, to such applicants as may be fixed by the board;
(4) Where the application is for a special permit to consume liquor on the premises of a business not licensed under this title, a special permit to purchase liquor for consumption thereon for such periods of time and to such applicants as may be fixed by the board;
(5) Where the application is for a special permit by a manufacturer to import or purchase within the state alcohol, malt, and other materials containing alcohol to be used in the manufacture of liquor, or other products, a special permit;
(6) Where the application is for a special permit by a person operating a drug store to purchase liquor at retail prices only, to be thereafter sold by such person on the prescription of a physician, a special liquor purchase permit, except that the governor may waive the requirement for a special liquor purchase permit under this subsection pursuant to an order issued under RCW 43.06.220(2);
(7) Where the application is for a special permit by a vendor that manufactures or sells a product which cannot be effectively presented to potential buyers without serving it with liquor or by a manufacturer, importer, or distributor, or representative thereof, to serve liquor without charge to delegates and guests at a convention of a trade association composed of licensees of the board, when the said liquor is served in a hospitality room or from a booth in a board-approved suppliers' display room at the convention, and when the liquor so served is for consumption in the said hospitality room or display room during the convention, anything in this title to the contrary notwithstanding. Any such spirituous liquor must be purchased from a spirits retailer or distributor, and any such liquor is subject to the taxes imposed by RCW 82.08.150, 66.24.290, and 66.24.210;
(8) Where the application is for a special permit by a manufacturer, importer, or distributor, or representative thereof, to donate liquor for a reception, breakfast, luncheon, or dinner for delegates and guests at a convention of a trade association composed of licensees of the board, when the liquor so donated is for consumption at the said reception, breakfast, luncheon, or dinner during the convention, anything in this title to the contrary notwithstanding. Any such spirituous liquor must be purchased from a spirits retailer or distributor, and any such liquor is subject to the taxes imposed by RCW 82.08.150, 66.24.290, and 66.24.210;
(9) Where the application is for a special permit by a manufacturer, importer, or distributor, or representative thereof, to donate and/or serve liquor without charge to delegates and guests at an international trade fair, show, or exposition held under the auspices of a federal, state, or local governmental entity or organized and promoted by a nonprofit organization, anything in this title to the contrary notwithstanding. Any such spirituous liquor must be purchased from a liquor spirits retailer or distributor, and any such liquor is subject to the taxes imposed by RCW 82.08.150, 66.24.290, and 66.24.210;
(10) Where the application is for an annual special permit by a person operating a bed and breakfast lodging facility to donate or serve wine or beer without charge to overnight guests of the facility if the wine or beer is for consumption on the premises of the facility. "Bed and breakfast lodging facility," as used in this subsection, means a facility offering from one to eight lodging units and breakfast to travelers and guests;
(11) Where the application is for a special permit to allow tasting of alcohol by persons at least 18 years of age under the following circumstances:
(a) The application is from a community or technical college as defined in RCW 28B.50.030, a regional university, or a state university;
(b) The person who is permitted to taste under this subsection is enrolled as a student in a required or elective class that is part of a culinary, sommelier, wine business, enology, viticulture, wine technology, beer technology, or spirituous technology-related degree program;
(c) The alcohol served to any person in the degree-related programs under (b) of this subsection is tasted but not consumed for the purposes of educational training as part of the class curriculum with the approval of the educational provider;
(d) The service and tasting of alcoholic beverages is supervised by a faculty or staff member of the educational provider who is 21 years of age or older. The supervising faculty or staff member shall possess a class 12 or 13 alcohol server permit under the provisions of RCW 66.20.310;
(e) The enrolled student permitted to taste the alcoholic beverages does not purchase the alcoholic beverages;
(f) The enrolled student permitted to taste the alcoholic beverages conducts the tasting either: (i) On the premises of the college or university at which the student is enrolled; or (ii) while on a field trip to a grape-growing area or production facility so long as the enrolled student is accompanied by a faculty or staff member with a class 12 or 13 alcohol server permit who supervises as provided in (d) of this subsection and all other requirements of this subsection (11) are met; and
(g) The permit fee for the special permit provided for in this subsection (11) must be waived by the board;
(12) Where the application is for a special permit by a distillery or craft distillery for an event not open to the general public to be held or conducted at a specific place, including at the licensed premise of the applying distillery or craft distillery, upon a specific date for the purpose of tasting and selling spirits of its own production. The distillery or craft distillery must obtain a permit for a fee of $15 per event. An application for the permit must be submitted for private banquet permits prior to the event and, once issued, must be posted in a conspicuous place at the premises for which the permit was issued during all times the permit is in use. No licensee may receive more than 12 permits under this subsection each year;
(13) Where the application is for a special permit by a manufacturer of wine for an event not open to the general public to be held or conducted at a specific place upon a specific date for the purpose of tasting and selling wine of its own production. The winery must obtain a permit for a fee of $15 per event. An application for the permit must be submitted at least ten days before the event and once issued, must be posted in a conspicuous place at the premises for which the permit was issued during all times the permit is in use. No more than 12 events per year may be held by a single manufacturer under this subsection;
(14) Where the application is for a special permit by a manufacturer of beer for an event not open to the general public to be held or conducted at a specific place upon a specific date for the purpose of tasting and selling beer of its own production. The brewery or microbrewery must obtain a permit for a fee of $15 per event. An application for the permit must be submitted at least 10 days before the event and, once issued, must be posted in a conspicuous place at the premises for which the permit was issued during all times the permit is in use. No more than 12 events per year may be held by a single manufacturer under this subsection;
(15) Where the application is for a special permit by an individual or business to sell a private collection of wine or spirits to an individual or business. The seller must obtain a permit at least five business days before the sale, for a fee of $37.50 per sale. The seller must provide an inventory of products sold and the agreed price on a form provided by the board. The seller shall submit the report and taxes due to the board no later than 20 calendar days after the sale. A permit may be issued under this section to allow the sale of a private collection to licensees, but may not be issued to a licensee to sell to a private individual or business which is not otherwise authorized under the license held by the seller. If the liquor is purchased by a licensee, all sales are subject to taxes assessed as on liquor acquired from any other source. The board may adopt rules to implement this section;
(16)(a) A special permit, where the application is for a special permit by a nonprofit organization to sell wine through an auction, not open to the public, to be conducted at a specific place, upon a specific date, and to allow wine tastings at the auction of the wine to be auctioned.
(b) A permit holder under this subsection (16) may at the specified event:
(i) Sell wine by auction for off-premises consumption; and
(ii) Allow tastings of samples of the wine to be auctioned at the event.
(c) An application is required for a permit under this subsection (16). The application must be submitted prior to the event and once issued must be posted in a conspicuous place at the premises for which the permit was issued during all times the permit is in use.
(d) Wine from more than one winery may be sold at the auction; however, each winery selling wine at the auction must be listed on the permit application. Only a single application form may be required for each auction, regardless of the number of wineries that are selling wine at the auction. The total fee per event for a permit issued under this subsection (16) is $37.50 multiplied by the number of wineries that are selling wine at the auction.
(e) For the purposes of this subsection (16), "nonprofit organization" means an entity incorporated as a nonprofit organization under Washington state law.
(f) The board may adopt rules to implement this section;
(17) An annual special permit to allow a short-term rental operator to provide one complimentary bottle of wine to rental guests who are age 21 or over. The annual special permit fee is $112.50. A single permit applies to all rental properties owned or operated by the short-term rental operator and identified in the permit application. One complimentary bottle of wine per booking may be provided, regardless of the total number of rental guests. The provision of the complimentary bottle of wine may occur only after an operator or staff person of the short-term rental, who is present at the short-term rental property, verifies that each rental guest who will consume the complimentary bottle of wine is age 21 or over by checking a valid form of identification of each such rental guest at the time rental guests arrive. The rental guests must be informed the rental guests are being offered one complimentary bottle of wine and that opening or consuming the bottle of wine in a public place is illegal pursuant to RCW 66.44.100. The rental guests must not have notified the operator that the rental guests decline the complimentary bottle of wine. The complimentary bottle of wine may be consumed on the premises of the rental property or removed and consumed off the premises of the rental property. A permit holder may purchase wine from wine distributors in accordance with RCW 66.24.200, and from retailers and other suppliers of wine authorized under this title to sell wine at retail to consumers for off-premises consumption. For purposes of this subsection, the terms "short-term rental," "operator," and "guest" have the same meanings as in RCW 64.37.010; and
(18) Where the application is for an emergency liquor permit by a licensed manufacturer to authorize the sale, service, and consumption of liquor on the premises of another liquor licensee with retail sales privileges when an emergency or disaster as defined in RCW 38.52.010 has made the premises of the applicant inaccessible and unable to operate due to an emergency or road closure, except that the fee must be waived if there is a proclamation of a state of emergency issued by the governor or by the city, town, or county where the applicant is located. The permit shall be valid for 30 days and may be continually renewed for periods of 30 days if the emergency or disaster continues. Employees or agents of the emergency permit holder or the licensed premises may serve liquor provided by the permit holder. The permit holder may store no more than a 30-day supply of liquor at the licensed premises in segregated storage. No more than a total of three emergency permit holders may sell at the same licensed premises under an emergency permit.
[ 2025 c 343 s 1; 2025 c 167 s 1; 2024 c 91 s 1; 2023 c 257 s 1; 2019 c 112 s 1; 2017 c 250 s 1. Prior: 2016 c 235 s 6; 2016 c 129 s 1; prior: 2015 c 195 s 1; 2015 c 194 s 3; 2015 c 59 s 1; 2013 c 59 s 1; 2012 c 2 s 109 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2011 c 119 s 213; 2008 c 181 s 602; (2008 c 181 s 601 expired July 1, 2008); 2007 c 370 s 16; 1998 c 126 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 43; 1984 c 78 s 6; 1984 c 45 s 1; 1983 c 13 s 1; 1982 c 85 s 1; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 62 s 2; 1959 c 111 s 2; 1951 2nd ex.s. c 13 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 12; RRS s 7306-12. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 167 s 1 and by 2025 c 343 s 1, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—2008 c 181 s 602: "Section 602 of this act takes effect July 1, 2008." [ 2008 c 181 s 604.]
Expiration date—2008 c 181 s 601: "Section 601 of this act expires July 1, 2008." [ 2008 c 181 s 603.]
Part headings not law—2008 c 181: See note following RCW 43.06.220.
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1998 c 126: "This act takes effect July 1, 1998." [ 1998 c 126 s 17.]
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Finding and declaration—Severability—1984 c 78: See notes following RCW 66.12.160.
(1) Every permit shall be issued in the name of the applicant therefor, and no permit shall be transferable, nor shall the holder of any permit allow any other person to use the permit.
(2) No person shall apply in any false or fictitious name for the issuance to him or her of a permit, and no person shall furnish a false or fictitious address in his or her application for a permit.
(3) Nothing in this title shall be construed as limiting the right of any minister, priest or rabbi, or religious organization from obtaining wine for sacramental purposes directly from any source whatsoever, whether from within the limits of the state of Washington or from outside the state; nor shall any fee be charged, directly or indirectly, for the exercise of this right. The board shall have the power and authority to make reasonable rules and regulations concerning the importing of any such liquor or wine, for the purpose of preventing any unlawful use of such right.
[ 2012 c 117 s 273; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 13; RRS s 7306-13. Formerly RCW 66.12.100, 66.20.020, and 66.20.030. ]
No permit shall be valid or be accepted or used for the purchase of liquor until the applicant for the permit has written his or her signature thereon in the prescribed manner, for the purposes of identification as the holder thereof, in the presence of the employee to whom the application is made.
[ 2012 c 117 s 274; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 14; RRS s 7306-14. ]
Every permit issued for use after October 1, 1955, shall expire at midnight on the thirtieth day of June of the fiscal year for which the permit was issued, except special permits for banquets and special permits to physicians, dentists, or persons in charge of an institution regularly conducted as a hospital or sanatorium for the care of persons in ill health, or as a home devoted exclusively to the care of aged people.
[ 1955 c 180 s 1; 1935 c 174 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 16; RRS s 7306-16. ]
Where the holder of any permit issued under this title violates any provision of this title or of the regulations, or is an interdicted person, or is otherwise disqualified from holding a permit, the board, upon proof to its satisfaction of the fact or existence of such violation, interdiction, or disqualification, and in its discretion, may with or without any hearing, suspend the permit and all rights of the holder thereunder for such period as the board sees fit, or may cancel the permit.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 17; RRS s 7306-17. ]
Upon receipt of notice of the suspension or cancellation of his or her permit, the holder of the permit shall forthwith deliver up the permit to the board. Where the permit has been suspended only, the board shall return the permit to the holder at the expiration or termination of the period of suspension. Where the permit has been suspended or canceled, no employee shall knowingly issue to the person whose permit is suspended or canceled a permit under this title until the end of the period of suspension or within the period of one year from the date of cancellation.
[ 2012 c 117 s 275; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 18; RRS s 7306-18. ]
The board shall immediately suspend the license of a person who has been certified pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320 by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order or a *residential or visitation order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for reinstatement during the suspension, reissuance of the license shall be automatic upon the board's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the licensee is in compliance with the order.
[ 1997 c 58 s 861. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: 1997 c 58 s 886 requiring a court to order certification of noncompliance with residential provisions of a court-ordered parenting plan was vetoed. Provisions ordering the department of social and health services to certify a responsible parent based on a court order to certify for noncompliance with residential provisions of a parenting plan were vetoed. See RCW 74.20A.320.
Short title—Part headings, captions, table of contents not law—Exemptions and waivers from federal law—Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—1997 c 58: See RCW 74.08A.900 through 74.08A.904.
Effective dates—Intent—1997 c 58: See notes following RCW 74.20A.320.
Where any permit is presented to an employee by a person who is not the holder of the permit, or where any permit which is suspended or canceled is presented to an employee, the employee shall retain the permit in his or her custody and shall forthwith notify the board of the fact of its retention.
[ 2012 c 117 s 276; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 19; RRS s 7306-19. ]
Any physician who deems liquor necessary for the health of a patient, whether an interdicted person or not, whom he or she has seen or visited professionally may give to the patient a prescription therefor, signed by the physician, or the physician may administer the liquor to the patient, for which purpose the physician may administer the liquor purchased by him or her under special permit and may charge for the liquor so administered; but no prescription shall be given or liquor be administered by a physician except to bona fide patients in cases of actual need, and when in the judgment of the physician the use of liquor as medicine in the quantity prescribed or administered is necessary; and any physician who administers liquor in evasion or violation of this title shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
[ 2012 c 117 s 277; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 20; RRS s 7306-20. ]
Any dentist who deems it necessary that any patient then under treatment by him or her should be supplied with liquor as a stimulant or restorative may administer to the patient the liquor so needed, and for that purpose the dentist shall administer liquor obtained by him or her under special permit pursuant to this title, and may charge for the liquor so administered; but no liquor shall be administered by a dentist except to bona fide patients in cases of actual need; and every dentist who administers liquor in evasion or violation of this title shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
[ 2012 c 117 s 278; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 21; RRS s 7306-21. ]
Any person in charge of an institution regularly conducted as a hospital or sanatorium for the care of persons in ill health, or as a home devoted exclusively to the care of aged people, may, if he or she holds a special permit under this title for that purpose, administer liquor purchased by him or her under his or her special permit to any patient or inmate of the institution who is in need of the same, either by way of external application or otherwise for medicinal purposes, and may charge for the liquor so administered; but no liquor shall be administered by any person under this section except to bona fide patients or inmates of the institution of which he or she is in charge and in cases of actual need and every person in charge of an institution who administers liquor in evasion or violation of this title shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
[ 2013 c 23 s 176; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 22; RRS s 7306-22. ]
No person whose permit has been canceled within the period of twelve months next preceding, or is suspended, shall make application to any employee under this title for another permit.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 40; RRS s 7306-40. ]
No person shall purchase or attempt to purchase liquor under a permit which is suspended, or which has been canceled, or of which he or she is not the holder.
[ 2012 c 117 s 279; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 41; RRS s 7306-41. ]
As used in RCW 66.20.160 through 66.20.210, inclusive, "licensee" means the holder of a retail liquor license issued by the board, and includes any employee or agent of the licensee.
[ 2012 c 2 s 110 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2005 c 151 s 8; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 4; 1971 ex.s. c 15 s 2; 1959 c 111 s 4; 1949 c 67 s 1; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-19A. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Severability—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: "If any phrase, clause, subsection or section of this 1973 amendatory act shall be declared unconstitutional or invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, it shall be conclusively presumed that the legislature would have enacted this 1973 amendatory act without the phrase, clause, subsection or section so held unconstitutional or invalid and the remainder of the act shall not be affected as a result of said part being held unconstitutional or invalid." [ 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 21.]
Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: "This 1973 amendatory act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1973." [ 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 22.]
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 15: "The effective date of this 1971 amendatory act is July 1, 1971." [ 1971 ex.s. c 15 s 8.]
A card of identification may for the purpose of this title and for the purpose of procuring liquor, be accepted as an identification card by any licensee and as evidence of legal age of the person presenting such card, provided the licensee complies with the conditions and procedures prescribed herein and such regulations as may be made by the board.
[ 2016 c 235 s 7; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 5; 1971 ex.s. c 15 s 3; 1959 c 111 s 5; 1949 c 67 s 2; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-19B. ]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 15: See note following RCW 66.20.160.
A card of identification must be presented by the holder thereof upon request of any licensee, peace officer, or enforcement officer of the board for the purpose of aiding the licensee, peace officer, or enforcement officer of the board to determine whether or not such person is of legal age to purchase liquor when such person desires to procure liquor from a licensed establishment.
[ 2016 c 235 s 8; 2005 c 151 s 9; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 6; 1971 ex.s. c 15 s 4; 1959 c 111 s 6; 1949 c 67 s 3; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-19C. ]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 15: See note following RCW 66.20.160.
In addition to the presentation by the holder and verification by the licensee of such card of identification, the licensee who is still in doubt about the true age of the holder must require the person whose age may be in question to sign a certification card and record an accurate description and serial number of his or her card of identification thereon. Such statement must be upon a five-inch by eight-inch file card, which card must be filed alphabetically by the licensee at or before the close of business on the day on which the statement is executed, in the file box containing a suitable alphabetical index and the card must be subject to examination by any peace officer or agent or employee of the board at all times. The certification card must also contain in boldface type a statement stating that the signer understands that conviction for unlawful purchase of alcoholic beverages or misuse of the certification card may result in criminal penalties including imprisonment or fine or both.
[ 2016 c 235 s 9; 2012 c 117 s 280; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 9; 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 4; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 7; 1971 ex.s. c 15 s 5; 1959 c 111 s 7; 1949 c 67 s 4; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-19D. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Severability—Effective date—1975 1st ex.s. c 173: See notes following RCW 66.08.050.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 15: See note following RCW 66.20.160.
(1) It is unlawful for the owner of a card of identification to transfer the card to any other person for the purpose of aiding such person to procure alcoholic beverages from any licensee. Any person who permits his or her card of identification to be used by another or transfer such card to another for the purpose of aiding such transferee to obtain alcoholic beverages from a licensee or gain admission to a premises or portion of a premises classified by the board as off-limits to persons under twenty-one years of age, is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable as provided by RCW 9A.20.021, except that a minimum fine of two hundred fifty dollars must be imposed and any sentence requiring community restitution must require not fewer than twenty-five hours of community restitution.
(2) Any person not entitled thereto who unlawfully procures or has issued or transferred to him or her a card of identification, and any person who possesses a card of identification not issued to him or her, and any person who makes any false statement on any certification card required by RCW 66.20.190, to be signed by him or her, is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable as provided by RCW 9A.20.021, except that a minimum fine of two hundred fifty dollars must be imposed and any sentence requiring community restitution must require not fewer than twenty-five hours of community restitution.
[ 2016 c 235 s 10; 2003 c 53 s 295; 2002 c 175 s 41; 1994 c 201 s 1; 1987 c 101 s 4; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 8; 1971 ex.s. c 15 s 6; 1969 ex.s. c 178 s 2; 1959 c 111 s 8; 1949 c 67 s 5; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-19E. ]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective date—2002 c 175: See note following RCW 7.80.130.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 15: See note following RCW 66.20.160.
Unlawful transfer to minor of age identification: RCW 66.44.325.
(1) No licensee or the agent or employee of the licensee may be prosecuted criminally or be sued in any civil action for serving liquor to a person under legal age to purchase liquor if such person has presented a card of identification in accordance with RCW 66.20.180, and has signed a certification card as provided in RCW 66.20.190.
(2) Such card in the possession of a licensee may be offered as a defense in any hearing held by the board for serving liquor to the person who signed the card and may be considered by the board as evidence that the licensee acted in good faith.
[ 2016 c 235 s 11; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 9; 1971 ex.s. c 15 s 7; 1959 c 111 s 9; 1949 c 67 s 6; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-19F. ]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1971 ex.s. c 15: See note following RCW 66.20.160.
The definitions in this section apply throughout RCW 66.20.310 through 66.20.350 unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Alcohol" has the same meaning as "liquor" in RCW 66.04.010.
(2) "Alcohol server" means any person who as part of their employment participates in the sale or service of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption at an on-premises licensed facility as a regular requirement of their employment, and includes those persons eighteen years of age or older permitted by the liquor laws of this state to serve alcoholic beverages with meals.
(3) "On-premises licensed facility" means any:
(a) Premises issued an annual license to sell or serve alcohol by the glass or by the drink, or in original containers primarily for consumption on the premises, or a premises holding a privilege for on-premises tasting activities, as authorized by this title;
(b) Distillery licensed pursuant to RCW 66.24.140 that is authorized to serve samples of its own production;
(c) Facility established by a domestic winery for serving and selling wine pursuant to RCW 66.24.170(4);
(d) Brewery or microbrewery authorized to serve or sell beer or other liquor under RCW 66.24.240 or 66.24.244;
(e) Grocery store licensed under RCW 66.24.360, but only with respect to employees whose duties include serving during tasting activities under RCW 66.24.363;
(f) Beer and/or wine specialty shop licensed under RCW 66.24.371, but only with respect to employees whose duties include serving during tasting activities;
(g) Spirit retailers licensed under RCW 66.24.630 or 66.24.632, but only with respect to employees whose duties include serving during tasting activities.
(4) "Training entity" means any liquor licensee associations, independent contractors, private persons, and private or public schools, that have been certified by the board.
[ 2025 c 167 s 2; 2019 c 64 s 20. Prior: 2014 c 78 s 2; 2014 c 29 s 2; prior: 2013 c 237 s 2; 2013 c 219 s 2; 2011 c 325 s 5; 2010 c 141 s 3; prior: 2008 c 94 s 10; 2008 c 41 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 44; 1996 c 218 s 2; 1995 c 51 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2019 c 64: See note following RCW 1.20.110.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Findings—1995 c 51: "The legislature finds that education of alcohol servers on issues such as the physiological effects of alcohol on consumers, liability and legal implications of serving alcohol, driving while intoxicated, and methods of intervention with the problem customer are important in protecting the health and safety of the public. The legislature further finds that it is in the best interest of the citizens of the state of Washington to have an alcohol server education program." [ 1995 c 51 s 1.]
(1)(a) There is an alcohol server permit, known as a class 12 permit, for:
(i) A manager;
(ii) A bartender selling or mixing alcohol, spirits, wines, or beer for consumption at an on-premises licensed facility; or
(iii) An employee conducting alcohol deliveries for a licensee that delivers alcohol under RCW 66.24.710.
(b) There is an alcohol server permit, known as a class 13 permit, for a person who only serves alcohol, spirits, wines, or beer for consumption at an on-premises licensed facility.
(c) As provided by rule by the board, a class 13 permit holder may be allowed to act as a bartender without holding a class 12 permit.
(2)(a) Effective January 1, 1997, except as provided in (d) of this subsection, every alcohol server employed, under contract or otherwise, at an on-premises licensed facility must be issued a class 12 or class 13 permit.
(b) Every class 12 and class 13 permit issued must be issued in the name of the applicant and no other person may use the permit of another permit holder. The holder must present the permit upon request to inspection by a representative of the board or a peace officer. The class 12 or class 13 permit is valid for employment at any on-premises licensed facility described in (a) of this subsection.
(c) Except as provided in (d) of this subsection, no licensee of an on-premises licensed facility holding a license as authorized by this title may employ or accept the services of any person whose duties include the compounding, sale, service, or handling of liquor without the person first having a valid class 12 or class 13 permit.
(d) Within sixty days of initial employment, every person whose duties include the compounding, sale, service, or handling of liquor must have a class 12 or class 13 permit.
(e) No person may perform duties that include the sale or service of alcoholic beverages at an on-premises licensed facility without possessing a valid alcohol server permit.
(f) Every person whose duties include the delivery of alcohol authorized under RCW 66.24.710 must have a class 12 permit before engaging in alcohol delivery. A delivery employee whose duties include the delivery of alcohol authorized under RCW 66.24.710 must complete an approved class 12 permit course that includes a curriculum component that covers best practices for delivery of alcohol.
(3) A permit issued by a training entity under this section is valid for employment at any on-premises licensed facility described in subsection (2)(a) of this section for a period of five years unless suspended by the board.
(4) The board may suspend or revoke an existing permit if any of the following occur:
(a) The applicant or permittee has been convicted of violating any of the state or local intoxicating liquor laws of this state, has been convicted at any time of a felony under chapter 9A.40, 9A.44, 9A.46, 9A.86, or 9A.88 RCW, or a felony that is directly related to alcohol service; or
(b) The permittee has performed or permitted any act that constitutes a violation of this title or of any rule of the board.
(5) The suspension or revocation of a permit under this section does not relieve a licensee from responsibility for any act of the employee or agent while employed upon the on-premises licensed facility. The board may, as appropriate, revoke or suspend either the permit of the employee who committed the violation or the license of the licensee upon whose premises the violation occurred, or both the permit and the license.
(6)(a) After January 1, 1997, it is a violation of this title for any on-premises licensed facility licensee or agent of a on-premises licensed facility as described in subsection (2)(a) of this section to employ in the sale or service of alcoholic beverages, any person who does not have a valid alcohol server permit or whose permit has been revoked, suspended, or denied.
(b) It is a violation of this title for a person whose alcohol server permit has been denied, suspended, or revoked to accept employment in the sale or service of alcoholic beverages.
(7) Grocery stores licensed under RCW 66.24.360, the primary commercial activity of which is the sale of grocery products and for which the sale and service of beer and wine for on-premises consumption with food is incidental to the primary business, and employees of such establishments, are exempt from RCW 66.20.300 through 66.20.350, except for employees whose duties include serving during tasting activities under RCW 66.24.363.
[ 2025 c 167 s 3; 2024 c 265 s 1; 2023 c 279 s 3. Prior: 2019 c 64 s 21; prior: 2014 c 78 s 3; 2014 c 29 s 3; prior: 2013 c 237 s 3; 2013 c 219 s 3; 2011 c 325 s 4; 2010 c 141 s 2; prior: 2009 c 271 s 5; 2009 c 187 s 4; prior: 2008 c 94 s 11; 2008 c 41 s 3; (2008 c 41 s 2 expired July 1, 2008); 2007 c 370 s 17; 1997 c 321 s 45; prior: 1996 c 311 s 1; 1996 c 218 s 3; 1995 c 51 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2023 c 279: See note following RCW 66.24.710.
Explanatory statement—2019 c 64: See note following RCW 1.20.110.
Effective date—2008 c 94 ss 4 and 11: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—2008 c 41 ss 3, 10, and 11: "Sections 3, 10, and 11 of this act take effect July 1, 2008." [ 2008 c 41 s 16.]
Expiration date—2008 c 41 s 2: "Section 2 of this act expires July 1, 2008." [ 2008 c 41 s 13.]
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Findings—1995 c 51: See note following RCW 66.20.300.
(1) The board shall regulate a required alcohol server education program that includes:
(a) Development of the curriculum and materials for the education program;
(b) Examination and examination procedures;
(c) Certification procedures, enforcement policies, and penalties for education program instructors and providers; and
(d) The curriculum for an approved class 12 alcohol permit training program that includes but is not limited to the following subjects:
(i) The physiological effects of alcohol including the effects of alcohol in combination with drugs;
(ii) Liability and legal information;
(iii) Driving while intoxicated;
(iv) Intervention with the problem customer, including ways to stop service, ways to deal with the belligerent customer, and alternative means of transportation to get the customer safely home;
(v) Methods for checking proper identification of customers;
(vi) Nationally recognized programs, such as TAM (Techniques in Alcohol Management) and TIPS (Training for Intervention Programs) modified to include Washington laws and rules; and
(vii) Best practices for delivery of alcohol for a course approved for a person whose duties include the delivery of alcohol authorized under RCW 66.24.710.
(2) The board shall provide the program through liquor licensee associations, independent contractors, private persons, private or public schools certified by the board, or any combination of such providers.
(3) Each training entity shall provide a class 12 permit to the manager, bartender, or delivery employee who has successfully completed a course the board has certified. A list of the individuals receiving the class 12 permit shall be forwarded to the board on the completion of each course given by the training entity.
(4) Applicants shall be given a class 13 permit upon the successful completion of the program.
(5) A list of the individuals receiving the class 13 permit shall be forwarded to the board on the completion of each video training program.
(6) The board shall develop a model permit for the class 12 and 13 permits. The board may provide such permits to training entities or licensees for a nominal cost to cover production.
(7)(a) Persons who have completed a nationally recognized alcohol management or intervention program since July 1, 1993, may be issued a class 12 or 13 permit upon providing proof of completion of such training to the board.
(b) Persons who completed the board's alcohol server training program after July 1, 1993, but before July 1, 1995, may be issued a class 13 permit upon providing proof of completion of such training to the board.
[ 2025 c 167 s 4; 2023 c 279 s 4; 1996 c 311 s 2; 1995 c 51 s 4. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2023 c 279: See note following RCW 66.24.710.
Findings—1995 c 51: See note following RCW 66.20.300.
The board shall adopt rules to implement RCW 66.20.300 through 66.20.350 including, but not limited to, procedures and grounds for denying, suspending, or revoking permits.
[ 1995 c 51 s 5. ]
NOTES:
Findings—1995 c 51: See note following RCW 66.20.300.
A violation of any of the rules of the board adopted to implement RCW 66.20.300 through 66.20.350 is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than two hundred fifty dollars for a first offense. A subsequent offense is punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars, or imprisonment for not more than ninety days, or both the fine and imprisonment.
[ 1995 c 51 s 6. ]
NOTES:
Findings—1995 c 51: See note following RCW 66.20.300.
Fees collected by the board under RCW 66.20.300 through 66.20.350 shall be deposited in the liquor revolving fund in accordance with RCW 66.08.170.
[ 1995 c 51 s 7. ]
NOTES:
Findings—1995 c 51: See note following RCW 66.20.300.
The holder of a license to manufacture wine issued by this state or another state may ship its wine to a person who is a resident of Washington and is twenty-one years of age or older for that person's personal use and not for resale.
[ 2006 c 49 s 1. ]
Before wine may be shipped by a domestic winery or an out-of-state winery to a person who is a resident of Washington, the winery must:
(1) Obtain a wine shipper's permit under procedures prescribed by the board by rule and pay a fee established by the board, if the winery is located outside the state; or
(2) Be licensed as a domestic winery by the board and have paid the annual license fee.
[ 2006 c 49 s 2. ]
(1) An applicant for a wine shipper's permit under RCW 66.20.365 must:
(a) Operate a winery located in the United States;
(b) Provide the board a copy of its valid license to manufacture wine issued by another state;
(c) Certify that it holds all state and federal licenses and permits necessary to operate a winery; and
(d) Register with the department of revenue under RCW 82.32.030.
(2) Holders of a winery certificate of approval under RCW 66.24.206(1)(a) are deemed to hold a wine shipper's permit without further application or fee, if the holder meets all requirements for a wine shipper's permit. A winery certificate of approval holder who wants to ship wine under its wine shipper's permit privilege must notify the *liquor control board in a manner determined by the board before shipping any wine to a Washington consumer.
(3) Holders of a wine shipper's permit must:
(a) Pay the tax under RCW 66.24.210 for sales of wine to Washington state residents; and
(b) Collect and remit to the department of revenue all applicable state and local sales and use taxes imposed by or under the authority of chapters 82.08, 82.12, and 82.14 RCW on all sales of wine delivered to buyers in this state, regardless of whether the permit holder has a physical presence in this state.
[ 2006 c 49 s 3. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
(1) A domestic winery or a wine shipper's permit holder must clearly label all wine cases or outside shipping packages of wine sent into or out of this state under chapter 49, Laws of 2006 to indicate that the package cannot be delivered to a person under twenty-one years of age or to an intoxicated person.
(2) A domestic winery or a wine shipper's permit holder must ensure that the private carrier used to deliver wine (a) obtains the signature of the person who receives the wine upon delivery, (b) verifies the age of the recipient, and (c) verifies that the recipient does not appear intoxicated at the time of delivery.
[ 2006 c 49 s 4. ]
(1) A wine shipper's permit holder and a domestic winery must report to the board, on or before the twentieth day of each month, all shipments of wine made during the preceding calendar month directly to Washington consumers under a wine shipper's permit or a domestic winery license in effect for all or any portion of the preceding year. All reports will be on forms prescribed by the board.
(2) A wine shipper's permit holder, a winery certificate of approval holder, or domestic winery who advertises or offers wine for direct shipment to customers within this state must clearly and conspicuously display the permit or license number in its advertising.
[ 2006 c 49 s 5. ]
A fee for a wine shipper's permit may be established by the board.
[ 2006 c 49 s 6. ]
(1) Holders of a wine shipper's permit are deemed to have consented to the jurisdiction of Washington concerning enforcement of chapter 49, Laws of 2006 and all laws, rules, and regulations related to the shipment of wine from wine manufacturers directly to consumers.
(2)(a) A permit issued under chapter 49, Laws of 2006 to a wine manufacturer located outside this state who fails to comply with the provisions of chapter 49, Laws of 2006 shall be suspended or revoked.
(b) The privilege to ship wine directly to Washington consumers under a domestic winery license shall be suspended or revoked if the domestic winery fails to comply with the provisions of chapter 49, Laws of 2006.
[ 2006 c 49 s 7. ]
(1) There shall be a permit known as a day spa permit to allow the holder to offer or supply, without charge, wine or beer by the individual glass to a customer for consumption on the premises. The customer must be at least 21 years of age and may only be offered wine or beer if the services he or she will be receiving will last more than one hour. Wine or beer served or consumed shall be purchased from a Washington state licensed retailer. A customer may consume no more than one six ounce glass of wine or one 12 ounce glass of beer per day under this permit. Day spas with a day spa permit may not advertise the service of complimentary wine or beer and may not sell wine or beer in any manner. Any employee involved in the service of wine or beer must complete a board-approved limited alcohol server training program.
(2) For the purposes of this section, "day spa" means a business that offers at least three of the following four service categories:
(a) Hair care;
(b) Skin care;
(c) Nail care; and
(d) Body care, such as massages, wraps, and waxing.
Day spas must provide separate service areas of the day spa for at least three of the service categories offered.
(3) The annual fee for this permit is $187.50.
[ 2025 c 343 s 2; 2014 c 199 s 1. ]
(1) The holder of a license to operate a distillery or craft distillery issued under RCW 66.24.140 or 66.24.145 may accept orders for spirits from, and deliver spirits to, customers if all of the following conditions are met for each sale:
(a) Spirits are not used for resale;
(b) Spirits come directly from the distillery's or craft distillery's possession prior to shipment or delivery. All transactions are to be treated as if they were conducted in the retail location of the distillery or craft distillery regardless of how they are received or processed;
(c) Spirits may be ordered in person at a licensed location, by mail, telephone, or internet, or by other similar methods; and
(d) Only a distillery or craft distillery licensee or a licensee's direct employees may accept and process orders and payments. A contractor may not do so on behalf of a distillery or craft distillery licensee, except for transmittal of payment through a third-party service. A third-party service may not solicit customer business on behalf of a distillery or craft distillery licensee.
(2) All orders and payments must be fully processed before spirits transfers ownership or, in the case of delivery, leaves a licensed distillery's or craft distillery's possession.
(3) Payment methods include, but are not limited to: Cash, credit or debit card, check or money order, electronic funds transfer, or an existing prepaid account. An existing prepaid account may not have a negative balance.
(4) To sell spirits via the internet, a new distillery or craft distillery license applicant must request internet-sales privileges in his or her application. An existing distillery or craft distillery licensee must notify the board prior to beginning internet sales. A corporate entity representing multiple licensees may notify the board in a single letter on behalf of affiliated distillery or craft distillery licensees, as long as the liquor license numbers of all licensee locations utilizing internet sales privileges are clearly identified.
(5) Delivery may be made only to a residence or business that has an address recognized by the United States postal service; however, the board may grant an exception to this rule at its discretion. A residence includes a hotel room, a motel room, marina, or other similar lodging that temporarily serves as a residence.
(6) Spirits may be delivered each day of the week between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. Delivery must be fully completed by 2:00 a.m.
(7) Under chapter 66.44 RCW, any person under twenty-one years of age is prohibited from purchasing, delivering, or accepting delivery of liquor.
(a) A delivery person must verify the age of the person accepting delivery before handing over liquor.
(b) If no person twenty-one years of age or older is present to accept a liquor order at the time of delivery, the liquor must be returned.
(8) Delivery of liquor is prohibited to any person who shows signs of intoxication.
(9)(a) Individual units of spirits must be factory sealed in bottles. For the purposes of this subsection, "factory sealed" means that a unit is in one hundred percent resalable condition, with all manufacturer's seals intact.
(b) The outermost surface of a liquor package, delivered by a third party, must have language stating that:
(i) The package contains liquor;
(ii) The recipient must be twenty-one years of age or older; and
(iii) Delivery to intoxicated persons is prohibited.
(10)(a) Records and files must be retained at the licensed premises. Each delivery sales record must include the following:
(i) Name of the purchaser;
(ii) Name of the person who accepts delivery;
(iii) Street addresses of the purchaser and the delivery location; and
(iv) Time and date of purchase and delivery.
(b) A private carrier must obtain the signature of the person who receives liquor upon delivery.
(c) A sales record does not have to include the name of the delivery person, but it is encouraged.
(11) Website requirements. When selling over the internet, all website pages associated with the sale of liquor must display the distillery or craft distillery licensee's registered trade name.
(12) A distillery or craft distillery licensee is accountable for all deliveries of liquor made on its behalf.
(13) The board may impose administrative enforcement action upon a licensee, or suspend or revoke a licensee's delivery privileges, or any combination thereof, should a licensee violate any condition, requirement, or restriction.
[ 2015 c 194 s 4. ]
(1) Every license must be issued in the name of the applicant, and the holder thereof may not allow any other person to use the license.
(2) For the purpose of considering any application for a license, or the renewal of a license, the board may cause an inspection of the premises to be made, and may inquire into all matters in connection with the construction and operation of the premises. For the purpose of reviewing any application for a license and for considering the denial, suspension, revocation, or renewal or denial thereof, of any license, the board may consider any prior criminal conduct of the applicant including an administrative violation history record with the board and a criminal history record information check. The board may submit the criminal history record information check to the Washington state patrol and to the identification division of the federal bureau of investigation in order that these agencies may search their records for prior arrests and convictions of the individual or individuals who filled out the forms. The board must require fingerprinting of any applicant whose criminal history record information check is submitted to the federal bureau of investigation. The provisions of RCW 9.95.240 and of chapter 9.96A RCW do not apply to such cases. Subject to the provisions of this section, the board may, in its discretion, grant or deny the renewal or license applied for. Denial may be based on, without limitation, the existence of chronic illegal activity documented in objections submitted pursuant to subsections (8)(d) and (12) of this section. Authority to approve an uncontested or unopposed license may be granted by the board to any staff member the board designates in writing. Conditions for granting such authority must be adopted by rule. No retail license of any kind may be issued to:
(a) A person doing business as a sole proprietor who has not resided in the state for at least one month prior to receiving a license, except in cases of licenses issued to dining places on railroads, boats, or aircraft;
(b) A copartnership, unless all of the members thereof are qualified to obtain a license, as provided in this section;
(c) A person whose place of business is conducted by a manager or agent, unless such manager or agent possesses the same qualifications required of the licensee;
(d) A corporation or a limited liability company, unless it was created under the laws of the state of Washington or holds a certificate of authority to transact business in the state of Washington.
(3)(a) The board may, in its discretion, subject to the provisions of RCW 66.08.150, suspend or cancel any license; and all rights of the licensee to keep or sell liquor thereunder must be suspended or terminated, as the case may be.
(b) The board must immediately suspend the license or certificate of a person who has been certified pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320 by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for reinstatement during the suspension, reissuance of the license or certificate is automatic upon the board's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the licensee is in compliance with the order.
(c) Upon written notification by the department of revenue in accordance with RCW 82.08.155 that a person is more than thirty days delinquent in reporting or remitting spirits taxes to the department, the board must suspend all spirits licenses held by that person. The board must also refuse to renew any existing spirits license of, or issue any new spirits license to, the person or any other applicant controlled directly or indirectly by that person. The board may not reinstate a person's spirits license or renew or issue a new spirits license to that person, or an applicant controlled directly or indirectly by that person, until such time as the department of revenue notifies the board that the person is current in reporting and remitting spirits taxes or that the department consents to the reinstatement or renewal of the person's spirits license or the issuance of a new spirits license to the person. For purposes of this section: (i) "Spirits license" means any license issued by the board under the authority of this chapter that authorizes the licensee to sell spirits; and (ii) "spirits taxes" has the same meaning as in RCW 82.08.155.
(d) The board may request the appointment of administrative law judges under chapter 34.12 RCW who must have power to administer oaths, issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses and the production of papers, books, accounts, documents, and testimony, examine witnesses, and to receive testimony in any inquiry, investigation, hearing, or proceeding in any part of the state, under such rules and regulations as the board may adopt.
(e) Witnesses are allowed fees and mileage each way to and from any such inquiry, investigation, hearing, or proceeding at the rate authorized by RCW 34.05.446. Fees need not be paid in advance of appearance of witnesses to testify or to produce books, records, or other legal evidence.
(f) In case of disobedience of any person to comply with the order of the board or a subpoena issued by the board, or any of its members, or administrative law judges, or on the refusal of a witness to testify to any matter regarding which he or she may be lawfully interrogated, the judge of the superior court of the county in which the person resides, on application of any member of the board or administrative law judge, must compel obedience by contempt proceedings, as in the case of disobedience of the requirements of a subpoena issued from said court or a refusal to testify therein.
(4) Upon receipt of notice of the suspension or cancellation of a license, the licensee must forthwith deliver up the license to the board. Where the license has been suspended only, the board must return the license to the licensee at the expiration or termination of the period of suspension. The board must notify all vendors in the city or place where the licensee has its premises of the suspension or cancellation of the license; and no employee may allow or cause any liquor to be delivered to or for any person at the premises of that licensee.
(5)(a) For the original issuance of a liquor license, including the approval of a conditional license as provided in (b) of this subsection, the board must set the expiration date of the license to the last day of the calendar month that is twelve months from the calendar month in which final approval of the license is granted. Upon renewal, the expiration date of the license, including licenses approved under (b) of this subsection, may subsequently be prorated as necessary in accordance with chapter 19.02 RCW.
(b)(i) When an applicant for a liquor license is qualified for approval of the license in every way except having executed a lease or purchase agreement for the proposed licensed premises, the board must grant conditional approval to the applicant.
(ii) Upon notification to the board of execution of the lease or purchase agreement putting the applicant in control of the premises, the board must immediately grant final approval of the license issuance, and the licensee may immediately begin exercising all privileges provided under the license, except as otherwise provided under this title.
(iii) For the purposes of this title, the term "license" includes "conditional license."
(6) Every license issued under this section is subject to all conditions and restrictions imposed by this title or by rules adopted by the board. All conditions and restrictions imposed by the board in the issuance of an individual license may be listed on the face of the individual license along with the trade name, address, and expiration date. Conditions and restrictions imposed by the board may also be included in official correspondence separate from the license. All spirits licenses are subject to the condition that the spirits license holder must report and remit to the department of revenue all spirits taxes by the date due.
(7) Every licensee must post and keep posted its license, or licenses, and any additional correspondence containing conditions and restrictions imposed by the board in a conspicuous place on the premises.
(8)(a) Unless (b) of this subsection applies, before the board issues a new or renewal license to an applicant it must give notice of such application to the chief executive officer of the incorporated city or town, if the application is for a license within an incorporated city or town, or to the county legislative authority, if the application is for a license outside the boundaries of incorporated cities or towns.
(b) If the application for a special occasion license is for an event held during a county, district, or area fair as defined by RCW 15.76.120, and the county, district, or area fair is located on property owned by the county but located within an incorporated city or town, the county legislative authority must be the entity notified by the board under (a) of this subsection. The board must send a duplicate notice to the incorporated city or town within which the fair is located.
(c) The incorporated city or town through the official or employee selected by it, or the county legislative authority or the official or employee selected by it, has the right to file with the board within twenty days after the date of transmittal of such notice for applications, or at least thirty days prior to the expiration date for renewals, written objections against the applicant or against the premises for which the new or renewal license is asked. The board may extend the time period for submitting written objections.
(d) The written objections must include a statement of all facts upon which such objections are based, and in case written objections are filed, the city or town or county legislative authority may request and the board may in its discretion hold a hearing subject to the applicable provisions of Title 34 RCW. If the board makes an initial decision to deny a license or renewal based on the written objections of an incorporated city or town or county legislative authority, the applicant may request a hearing subject to the applicable provisions of Title 34 RCW. If such a hearing is held at the request of the applicant, board representatives must present and defend the board's initial decision to deny a license or renewal.
(e) Upon the granting of a license under this title the board must send written notification to the chief executive officer of the incorporated city or town in which the license is granted, or to the county legislative authority if the license is granted outside the boundaries of incorporated cities or towns. When the license is for a special occasion license for an event held during a county, district, or area fair as defined by RCW 15.76.120, and the county, district, or area fair is located on county-owned property but located within an incorporated city or town, the written notification must be sent to both the incorporated city or town and the county legislative authority.
(9)(a) Before the board issues any license to any applicant, it shall give (i) due consideration to the location of the business to be conducted under such license with respect to the proximity of churches, schools, and public institutions and (ii) written notice, with receipt verification, of the application to public institutions identified by the board as appropriate to receive such notice, churches, and schools within five hundred feet of the premises to be licensed. The board may not issue a liquor license for either on-premises or off-premises consumption covering any premises not now licensed, if such premises are within five hundred feet of the premises of any tax-supported public elementary or secondary school measured along the most direct route over or across established public walks, streets, or other public passageway from the main entrance of the school to the nearest public entrance of the premises proposed for license, and if, after receipt by the school of the notice as provided in this subsection, the board receives written objection, within twenty days after receiving such notice, from an official representative or representatives of the school within five hundred feet of said proposed licensed premises, indicating to the board that there is an objection to the issuance of such license because of proximity to a school. The board may extend the time period for submitting objections. For the purpose of this section, "church" means a building erected for and used exclusively for religious worship and schooling or other activity in connection therewith. For the purpose of this section, "public institution" means institutions of higher education, parks, community centers, libraries, and transit centers.
(b) No liquor license may be issued or reissued by the board to any motor sports facility or licensee operating within the motor sports facility unless the motor sports facility enforces a program reasonably calculated to prevent alcohol or alcoholic beverages not purchased within the facility from entering the facility and such program is approved by local law enforcement agencies.
(c) It is the intent under this subsection (9) that a retail license may not be issued by the board where doing so would, in the judgment of the board, adversely affect a private school meeting the requirements for private schools under Title 28A RCW, which school is within five hundred feet of the proposed licensee. The board must fully consider and give substantial weight to objections filed by private schools. If a license is issued despite the proximity of a private school, the board must state in a letter addressed to the private school the board's reasons for issuing the license.
(10) The restrictions set forth in subsection (9) of this section do not prohibit the board from authorizing the assumption of existing licenses now located within the restricted area by other persons or licenses or relocations of existing licensed premises within the restricted area. In no case may the licensed premises be moved closer to a church or school than it was before the assumption or relocation.
(11)(a) Nothing in this section prohibits the board, in its discretion, from issuing a temporary retail or distributor license to an applicant to operate the retail or distributor premises during the period the application for the license is pending. The board may establish a fee for a temporary license by rule.
(b) A temporary license issued by the board under this section must be for a period not to exceed sixty days. A temporary license may be extended at the discretion of the board for additional periods of sixty days upon payment of an additional fee and upon compliance with all conditions required in this section.
(c) Refusal by the board to issue or extend a temporary license shall not entitle the applicant to request a hearing. A temporary license may be canceled or suspended summarily at any time if the board determines that good cause for cancellation or suspension exists. RCW 66.08.130 applies to temporary licenses.
(d) Application for a temporary license must be on such form as the board shall prescribe. If an application for a temporary license is withdrawn before issuance or is refused by the board, the fee which accompanied such application must be refunded in full.
(12) In determining whether to grant or deny a license or renewal of any license, the board must give substantial weight to objections from an incorporated city or town or county legislative authority based upon chronic illegal activity associated with the applicant's operations of the premises proposed to be licensed or the applicant's operation of any other licensed premises, or the conduct of the applicant's patrons inside or outside the licensed premises. "Chronic illegal activity" means (a) a pervasive pattern of activity that threatens the public health, safety, and welfare of the city, town, or county including, but not limited to, open container violations, assaults, disturbances, disorderly conduct, or other criminal law violations, or as documented in crime statistics, police reports, emergency medical response data, calls for service, field data, or similar records of a law enforcement agency for the city, town, county, or any other municipal corporation or any state agency; or (b) an unreasonably high number of citations for violations of RCW 46.61.502 associated with the applicant's or licensee's operation of any licensed premises as indicated by the reported statements given to law enforcement upon arrest.
(13)(a) Nothing in this title prohibits an applicant for a liquor license from becoming licensed to operate out of a premises located on the property of a facility that includes the separate premises of other liquor licensees or other businesses.
(b) The owner of a facility described in this subsection may be, but is not required to be, one of the licensees operating out of a premises at the facility. Nothing in this title prohibits a licensee who owns real property, or real and personal property, from leasing such property to other licensees or businesses and multiple licensees or businesses operating their own premises at the facility, or prohibits a licensee from leasing use of its kitchen to another person. The board shall not consider the existence of such arrangements alone to impact the licensee's ownership and control of their premises or otherwise prevent licensure. A licensee that leases use of its kitchen to another person must ensure that the other person holds all required permits, approvals, and licenses, including kitchen and food service permits required by the applicable local health department and state and local business licenses, before operating out of the kitchen.
(c) The board may require submission of any lease agreement, operating agreement, and other contract in existence between licensees, businesses, and the owner of the facility, and between the different licensees and businesses at the facility, to ensure each licensee retains ownership and control over their licensed premises on the facility property.
(d) Leasing agreements may not include any profit or revenue sharing, nor any requirement that the lessee serve products made by the lessor.
(e) Each licensee and business must operate out of their own premises on the facility property, except as authorized under RCW 66.24.1472 or 66.24.710(7), or under (b) of this subsection (13) for leased use of kitchen facilities.
(f) Nothing in this subsection:
(i) Authorizes a licensee to engage in privileges not authorized under the terms of their license;
(ii) Requires a licensee to obtain a liquor license for a type of activity conducted by another licensee from that other licensee's separate premises on the facility property;
(iii) Shall be construed to violate RCW 66.28.305 or other provisions of this title;
(iv) Authorizes a person who does not hold a liquor license to engage in any activity that requires holding a liquor license; or
(v) Authorizes a person, including a lessee of a kitchen, to engage in food preparation or service without holding all required permits, approvals, and licenses, including kitchen and food service permits required by the applicable local health department and state and local business licenses.
[ 2026 c 196 s 1; 2019 c 370 s 1; 2012 c 39 s 4; 2011 c 195 s 1; 2009 c 271 s 6; 2007 c 473 s 1; 2006 c 359 s 1; 2004 c 133 s 1; 2002 c 119 s 3; 1998 c 126 s 2. Prior: 1997 c 321 s 1; 1997 c 58 s 873; 1995 c 232 s 1; 1988 c 200 s 1; 1987 c 217 s 1; 1983 c 160 s 3; 1982 c 85 s 2; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 10; 1981 c 67 s 31; 1974 ex.s. c 66 s 1; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 10; 1971 c 70 s 1; 1969 ex.s. c 178 s 3; 1947 c 144 s 1; 1935 c 174 s 3; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 27; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 7306-27. Formerly RCW 66.24.010, part and 66.24.020 through 66.24.100. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1937 c 217 s 1 (23U) now codified as RCW 66.24.025. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2019 c 370: "This act takes effect January 1, 2020." [ 2019 c 370 s 2.]
Construction—Effective date—2012 c 39: See notes following RCW 82.08.155.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: "This act takes effect July 1, 1998." [ 1997 c 321 s 64.]
Short title—Part headings, captions, table of contents not law—Exemptions and waivers from federal law—Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—1997 c 58: See RCW 74.08A.900 through 74.08A.904.
Effective dates—Intent—1997 c 58: See notes following RCW 74.20A.320.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective dates—Severability—1981 c 67: See notes following RCW 34.12.010.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1971 c 70: "The effective date of this 1971 amendatory act is July 1, 1971." [ 1971 c 70 s 4.]
The board shall immediately suspend the license of a person who has been certified pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320 by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order or a *residential or visitation order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for reinstatement during the suspension, reissuance of the license shall be automatic upon the board's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the licensee is in compliance with the order.
[ 1997 c 58 s 862. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: 1997 c 58 s 886 requiring a court to order certification of noncompliance with residential provisions of a court-ordered parenting plan was vetoed. Provisions ordering the department of social and health services to certify a responsible parent based on a court order to certify for noncompliance with residential provisions of a parenting plan were vetoed. See RCW 74.20A.320.
Short title—Part headings, captions, table of contents not law—Exemptions and waivers from federal law—Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—1997 c 58: See RCW 74.08A.900 through 74.08A.904.
Effective dates—Intent—1997 c 58: See notes following RCW 74.20A.320.
The board shall immediately suspend the license of a business that has been issued a license under RCW 66.24.330, 66.24.371, or 66.24.600 if the board receives information that the business has not complied with RCW 74.08.580(2). If the licensee has remained otherwise eligible to be licensed, the board may reinstate the suspended license when the business has complied with RCW 74.08.580(2).
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 42 s 15. ]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 42: See notes following RCW 74.08A.260.
Finding—2011 1st sp.s. c 42: See note following RCW 74.04.004.
An application for a new annual retail license under this title shall be accompanied by payment of a nonrefundable $112.50 fee to cover expenses incurred in processing the application. If the application is approved, the application fee shall be applied toward the fee charged for the license.
[ 2025 c 343 s 3; 1988 c 200 s 4. ]
(1) If the board approves, a license may be transferred, without charge, to the surviving spouse only of a deceased licensee if the parties were maintaining a marital community and the license was issued in the names of one or both of the parties. For the purpose of considering the qualifications of the surviving party or parties to receive a liquor license, the *liquor control board may require a criminal history record information check. The board may submit the criminal history record information check to the Washington state patrol and to the identification division of the federal bureau of investigation in order that these agencies may search their records for prior arrests and convictions of the individual or individuals who filled out the forms. The board shall require fingerprinting of any applicant whose criminal history record information check is submitted to the federal bureau of investigation.
(2) The proposed sale of more than ten percent of the outstanding and/or issued stock of a licensed corporation or any proposed change in the officers of a licensed corporation must be reported to the board, and board approval must be obtained before such changes are made. A fee of seventy-five dollars will be charged for the processing of such change of stock ownership and/or corporate officers.
[ 2002 c 119 s 4; 1995 c 232 s 2; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 11; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 11; 1971 c 70 s 2; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23U) (adding new section 23-U to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23U. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1971 c 70: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) There is a license called a combination spirits, beer, and wine license, to sell wine and beer, including without limitation strong beer, at retail in bottles, cans, and original containers, not to be consumed upon the premises where sold, and to:
(a) Sell spirits in original containers to consumers for consumption off the licensed premises and to permit holders;
(b) Sell spirits in original containers to retailers licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the premises, for resale at their licensed premises according to the terms of their licenses; and
(c) Export spirits.
(2) The annual fee for the combination spirits, beer, and wine license is $2,000 for each store.
(3) For the purposes of this title, a combination spirits, beer, and wine license is a retail license, and a sale by a combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee is a retail sale only if not for resale. Nothing in this title authorizes sales by on-premise licensees to other retail licensees.
(4)(a) The board may issue a combination spirits, beer, and wine license:
(i) For premises comprising at least 10,000 square feet of fully enclosed retail space within a single structure, including storerooms and other interior auxiliary areas but excluding covered or fenced exterior areas, whether or not attached to the structure, and only to applicants that the board determines will maintain appropriate systems for inventory management, employee training, employee supervision, and physical security of the product;
(ii) For premises of a former contract liquor store; or
(iii) To a holder of former state liquor store operating rights sold at auction under RCW 66.24.620.
(b) License issuances and renewals are subject to RCW 66.24.010 and the regulations adopted thereunder including, without limitation, rights of cities, towns, county legislative authorities, the public, churches, schools, and public institutions to object to or prevent issuance of local liquor licenses. However, existing grocery and other retail premises over 10,000 square feet licensed to sell beer and/or wine are deemed to be premises "now licensed" under RCW 66.24.010(9)(a) for the purpose of processing applications for combination spirits, beer, and wine licenses.
(c) A retailer authorized to sell spirits for consumption on or off the licensed premises may accept delivery of spirits and deliver spirits in the same manner as is provided in RCW 66.24.630(3)(d).
(d) For purposes of negotiating volume discounts of spirits, a group of individual retailers authorized to sell spirits for consumption off the licensed premises may accept delivery of spirits as provided in RCW 66.24.630(3)(e).
(5) Each combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee must pay to the board, for deposit into the liquor revolving fund, a license issuance fee equivalent to the license issuance fee imposed on licensees selling spirits pursuant to RCW 66.24.630(4)(a).
(6) The board may not issue a combined spirits, beer, and wine license to an applicant if the applicant would qualify for a restricted license as provided in RCW 66.24.371(4) or 66.24.360(7) if the applicant had applied for a license under RCW 66.24.371 or 66.24.360 instead of pursuant to this section.
(7) As a condition to receiving and renewing a combination spirits, beer, and wine license the licensee must comply with RCW 66.24.630(6).
(8) The maximum penalties prescribed by the board in WAC 314-29-020 through 314-29-040 relating to fines and suspensions are doubled for violations relating to the sale of spirits by combination spirits, beer, and wine licensees.
(9)(a) A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee that joins the responsible vendor program developed by the board pursuant to RCW 66.24.630(8) and maintains all of the program's requirements is not subject to the doubling of penalties provided in this section for a single violation in any period of 12 calendar months.
(b) To participate in the responsible vendor program, a combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee must submit an application form to the board. If the application establishes that the combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee meets the qualifications to join the program, the board must send the licensee a membership certificate.
(c) A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee participating in the responsible vendor program must meet the requirements in RCW 66.24.630(8)(e) and comply with board rules adopted to implement RCW 66.24.630(8).
(10)(a) Any endorsement available to the holder of a license issued pursuant to RCW 66.24.360 or 66.24.371 is available, upon board approval and pursuant to board rules, to a combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee, provided that the combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee would qualify for a license and the endorsement under RCW 66.24.360 or 66.24.371, as applicable, had the licensee applied for a license and endorsement pursuant to RCW 66.24.360, 66.24.363, or 66.24.371, as applicable, instead of the combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to this section. A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee with an endorsement issued pursuant to this subsection must comply with the requirements of the endorsement to the same extent as if the endorsement was issued pursuant to RCW 66.24.360, 66.24.363, or 66.24.371, as applicable.
(b) A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee may conduct sampling in accordance with:
(i) RCW 66.24.371(2) if the combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee would qualify for a license under RCW 66.24.371; or
(ii) RCW 66.24.363 if the combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee would qualify for a license under RCW 66.24.360.
(11) Licensees holding a combination spirits, beer, and wine license must maintain either:
(a) A minimum $3,000 inventory of food products for human consumption, not including pop, beer, strong beer, wine, or spirits; or
(b) A minimum $3,000 wholesale inventory of beer, strong beer, and/or wine.
(12) A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee holding a snack bar license under RCW 66.24.350 may receive an endorsement to allow the sale of confections containing more than one percent but not more than 10 percent alcohol by weight to persons 21 years of age or older.
(13) The board may adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2025 c 343 s 4; 2025 c 95 s 1; 2017 c 96 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 95 s 1 and by 2025 c 343 s 4, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
(1) There is a license for spirits distributors to (a) sell spirits purchased from manufacturers, distillers, or suppliers including, without limitation, licensed Washington distilleries, licensed spirits importers, other Washington spirits distributors, or suppliers of foreign spirits located outside of the United States, to spirits retailers including, without limitation, spirits retail licensees, special occasion license holders, interstate common carrier license holders, restaurant spirits retailer license holders, spirits, beer, and wine private club license holders, hotel license holders, sports entertainment facility license holders, and spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license holders, and to other spirits distributors; and (b) export the same from the state.
(2)(a) As limited by (b) of this subsection, each spirits distributor licensee must pay to the board, for deposit into the liquor revolving fund, a license issuance fee calculated as follows:
(i) In each of the first 27 months of licensure, 10 percent of the total revenue from all the licensee's sales of spirits made during the month for which the fee is due, respectively; and
(ii) In the 28th month of licensure and each month thereafter, five percent of the total revenue from all the licensee's sales of spirits made during the month for which the fee is due, respectively.
(b) The fee required under this subsection (2) is calculated only on sales of items which the licensee was the first spirits distributor in the state to have received:
(i) In the case of spirits manufactured in the state, from the distiller; or
(ii) In the case of spirits manufactured outside the state, from an authorized out-of-state supplier.
(c) A retail licensee selling for resale must pay a distributor license fee under the terms and conditions in this section on resales of spirits the licensee has purchased on which no other distributor license fee has been paid. The board must establish rules setting forth the frequency and timing of such payments and reporting of sales dollar volume by the licensee, with payments due quarterly in arrears.
(d) No spirits inventory may be subject to calculation of more than a single spirits distributor license issuance fee.
(3) In addition to the payment set forth in subsection (2) of this section, each spirits distributor licensee renewing its annual license must pay an annual license renewal fee of $1,980 for each licensed location.
(4) There is no minimum facility size or capacity for spirits distributor licenses, and no limit on the number of such licenses issued to qualified applicants. License applicants must provide physical security of the product that is substantially as effective as the physical security of the distribution facilities currently operated by the board with respect to preventing pilferage. License issuances and renewals are subject to RCW 66.24.010 and the regulations promulgated thereunder, including without limitation rights of cities, towns, county legislative authorities, the public, churches, schools, and public institutions to object to or prevent issuance of local liquor licenses. However, existing distributor premises licensed to sell beer and/or wine are deemed to be premises "now licensed" under RCW 66.24.010(9)(a) for the purpose of processing applications for spirits distributor licenses.
[ 2025 c 343 s 5; 2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 1; 2012 c 2 s 105 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). ]
NOTES:
Application—2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 1: "The changes made in section 1 of this act apply to spirits distributors licensed on or after January 1, 2012." [ 2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 2.]
Effective date—2013 2nd sp.s. c 12: See note following RCW 66.24.632.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
The distribution of spirits license fees under RCW 66.24.630 and 66.24.055 through the liquor revolving fund to border areas, counties, cities, towns, and the municipal research center must be made in a manner that provides that each category of recipients receive, in the aggregate, no less than it received from the liquor revolving fund during comparable periods prior to December 8, 2011. An additional distribution of ten million dollars per year from the spirits license fees must be provided to border areas, counties, cities, and towns through the liquor revolving fund for the purpose of enhancing public safety programs.
[ 2012 c 2 s 302 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
The board in suspending any license may further provide in the order of suspension that such suspension shall be vacated upon payment to the board by the licensee of a monetary penalty in an amount then fixed by the board.
[ 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 12; 1939 c 172 s 7 (adding new section 27-C to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-27C. ]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
(1) There is a license to distillers, including blending, rectifying, and bottling; fee $2,100 per annum, unless provided otherwise as follows:
(a) For distillers producing 150,000 gallons or less of spirits with at least half of the raw materials used in the production grown in Washington, the license fee must be reduced to $150 per annum;
(b) The board must license stills used and to be used solely and only by a commercial chemist for laboratory purposes, and not for the manufacture of liquor for sale, at a fee of $30 per annum;
(c) The board must license stills used and to be used solely and only for laboratory purposes in any school, college, or educational institution in the state, without fee; and
(d) The board must license stills that have been duly licensed as fruit and/or wine distilleries by the federal government, used and to be used solely as fruit and/or wine distilleries in the production of fruit brandy and wine spirits, at a fee of $300 per annum.
(2) Any distillery licensed under this section may:
(a) Sell, for off-premises consumption, spirits of the distillery's own production, spirits produced by another distillery or craft distillery licensed in this state, or vermouth or sparkling wine products produced by a licensee in this state. A distillery selling spirits or other alcohol authorized under this subsection must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to retailers for those products;
(b) Contract distilled spirits for, and sell contract distilled spirits to, holders of distillers' or manufacturers' licenses, including licenses issued under RCW 66.24.520, or for export; and
(c) Serve samples of spirits for free or for a charge, and sell servings of spirits, vermouth, and sparkling wine to customers for on-premises consumption, at the premises of the distillery indoors, outdoors, or in any combination thereof, and at the distillery's off-site tasting rooms in accordance with this chapter, subject to the following conditions:
(i) A distillery may provide to customers, for free or for a charge, for on-premises consumption, spirits samples that are .5 ounce or less per sample of spirits, and that may be adulterated with water, ice, other alcohol entitled to be served or sold on the licensed premises under this section, or nonalcoholic mixers;
(ii) A distillery may sell, for on-premises consumption, servings of spirits of the distillery's own production or spirits produced by another distillery or craft distillery licensed in this state, which must be adulterated with water, ice, other alcohol entitled to be sold or served on the licensed premises, or nonalcoholic mixers if the revenue derived from the sale of spirits for on-premises consumption under this subsection (2)(c)(ii) does not comprise more than 30 percent of the overall gross revenue earned in the tasting room during the calendar year. Any distiller who sells adulterated products under this subsection, must file an annual report with the board that summarizes the distiller's revenue sources; and
(iii) A distillery may sell, for on-premises consumption, servings of vermouth or sparkling wine products produced by a licensee in this state.
(3)(a) If a distillery provides or sells spirits or other alcohol products authorized to be sold or provided to customers for on-premises or off-premises consumption that are produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state, then at any one time no more than 25 percent of the alcohol stock-keeping units offered or sold by the distillery at its distillery premises and at any off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146 may be vermouth, sparkling wine, or spirits made by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state. If a distillery sells fewer than 20 alcohol stock-keeping units of products of its own production, it may sell up to five alcohol stock-keeping units of vermouth, sparkling wine, or spirits produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state.
(b) A person is limited to receiving or purchasing, for on-premises consumption, no more than two ounces total of spirits that are unadulterated. Any additional spirits purchased for on-premises consumption must be adulterated as authorized in this section.
(c)(i) No person under 21 years of age may be on the premises of a distillery tasting room, including an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, unless they are accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
(ii) Every distillery tasting room, including the off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146, where alcohol is sampled, sold, or served, must include a designated area where persons under 21 years of age are allowed to enter. Such location may be in a separate room or a designated area within the tasting room separated from the remainder of the tasting room space as authorized by the board.
(iii) Except for (c)(iv) of this subsection, or an event where a private party has secured a private banquet permit, no person under 21 years of age may be on the distillery premises, or the off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146, past 9:00 p.m.
(iv) Notwithstanding the limitations of (c)(iii) of this subsection, persons under 21 years of age who are children of owners, operators, or managers of a distillery or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, may be in any area of a distillery, tasting room, or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, provided they must be under the direct supervision of their parent or legal guardian while on the premises.
(d) Any person serving or selling spirits or other alcohol authorized to be served or sold by a distillery must obtain a class 12 alcohol server permit.
(e) A distillery may sell nonalcoholic products at retail.
[ 2025 c 343 s 6; (2022 c 116 s 7 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 1; 2020 c 238 s 1; 2017 c 260 s 1; 2015 c 194 s 1; 2014 c 92 s 4; 2010 c 290 s 1; 2008 c 94 s 1; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 28; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23D) (adding new section 23-D to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23D. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [February 28, 2021]." [ 2021 c 6 s 20.]
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1)(a) Any craft distillery may sell, for off-premises consumption, spirits of its own production, spirits produced by another craft distillery or distillery licensed in this state, and vermouth and sparkling wine products produced by a licensee in this state.
(b) A craft distillery selling spirits or other alcohol authorized under this subsection must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to retailers for those products.
(2) Any craft distillery may contract distilled spirits for, and sell contract distilled spirits to, holders of distillers' or manufacturers' licenses, including licenses issued under RCW 66.24.520, or for export.
(3) Any craft distillery licensed under this section may serve samples of spirits for free or for a charge, and sell servings of spirits, vermouth, and sparkling wine products to customers for on-premises consumption, at the premises of the distillery indoors, outdoors, or in any combination thereof, and at the distillery's off-site tasting rooms, in accordance with this chapter, subject to the following conditions:
(a) A craft distillery may provide to customers, for free or for a charge, for on-premises consumption, spirits samples that are one-half ounce or less per sample of spirits, and that may be adulterated with water, ice, other alcohol entitled to be sold or served on the licensed premises, or nonalcoholic mixers;
(b) A craft distillery may sell, for on-premises consumption, servings of spirits of the craft distillery's own production and spirits produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state, which must be adulterated with water, ice, other alcohol entitled to be sold or served on the licensed premises, or nonalcoholic mixers if the revenue derived from the sale of spirits for on-premises consumption under this subsection (3)(b) does not comprise more than thirty percent of the overall gross revenue earned in the tasting room during the calendar year. Any distiller who sells adulterated products under this subsection, must file an annual report with the board that summarizes the distiller's revenue sources; and
(c) A distillery may sell, for on-premises consumption, servings of vermouth or sparkling wine products produced by a licensee in this state.
(4)(a) If a craft distillery provides or sells spirits or other alcohol products authorized to be sold or provided to customers for on-premises or off-premises consumption that are produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state, then at any one time no more than twenty-five percent of the alcohol stock-keeping units offered or sold by the craft distillery at its craft distillery premises and at any off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146 may be vermouth, sparkling wine, or spirits produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state. If a distillery sells fewer than twenty alcohol stock-keeping units of products of its own production, it may sell up to five alcohol stock-keeping units of vermouth, sparkling wine, or spirits produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state.
(b) A person is limited to receiving or purchasing, for on-premises consumption, no more than two ounces total of spirits that are unadulterated. Any additional spirits purchased for on-premises consumption must be adulterated.
(c) Any person serving or selling spirits or other alcohol authorized to be served or sold by a craft distillery must obtain a class 12 alcohol server permit.
(5) The board must adopt rules to implement the alcohol server permit requirement and may adopt additional rules to implement this section.
(6) Distilling is an agricultural practice.
(7)(a) No person under twenty-one years of age may be on the premises of a craft distillery tasting room, including an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, unless they are accompanied by their parent or guardian.
(b) Every craft distillery tasting room, including the off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146, where alcohol is sampled, sold, or served, must include a designated area where persons under twenty-one years of age are allowed to enter. Such location may be in a separate room or a designated area within the tasting room separated from the remainder of the tasting room space as authorized by the board.
(c) Except for (d) of this subsection, or an event where a private party has secured a private banquet permit, no person under twenty-one years of age may be on the distillery premises, or the off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146, past 9:00 p.m.
(d) Notwithstanding the limitations in (c) of this subsection, persons under twenty-one years of age who are children of owners, operators, or managers of a craft distillery or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, may be in any area of a licensed craft distillery, tasting room, or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, provided they must be under the direct supervision of their parent or guardian while on the premises.
(8) A craft distillery may sell nonalcoholic products at retail.
[ 2020 c 238 s 2; 2015 c 194 s 2; 2014 c 92 s 1; 2013 c 98 s 1; 2012 c 2 s 205 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2010 c 290 s 2; 2008 c 94 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
(1) There is a tasting room license available to distillery and craft distillery licensees. A tasting room license authorizes the operation of an off-site tasting room, in addition to a tasting room attached to the distillery's or craft distillery's production facility, at which the licensee may sample, serve, and sell spirits and alcohol products authorized to be sampled, served, and sold under RCW 66.24.140 and 66.24.145, for on-premises and off-premises consumption, subject to the same limitations as provided in RCW 66.24.140 and 66.24.145.
(2) A distillery or craft distillery licensed production facility is eligible for no more than two off-site tasting room licenses located in this state, which may be indoors, or outdoors or a combination thereof, and which shall be administratively tied to a licensed production facility. A separate license is required for the operation of each off-site tasting room. The fee for each off-site tasting room license is $2,100 per annum. No additional license is required for a distillery or craft distillery to sample, serve, and sell spirits and alcohol to customers in a tasting room on the distillery or craft distillery premises as authorized under this section, RCW 66.24.1472, 66.24.140, 66.24.145, 66.28.040, 66.24.630, and 66.28.310. Off-site tasting rooms may have a section identified and segregated as federally bonded spaces for the storage of bulk or packaged spirits. Product of the licensee's production may be bottled or packaged in the space.
[ 2025 c 343 s 7; (2022 c 116 s 8 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 2; 2020 c 238 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Effective date—2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10: "Sections 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10 of this act take effect January 1, 2021." [ 2020 c 238 s 14.]
(1) A distillery licensed under RCW 66.24.140 or 66.24.145, or an off-site tasting room authorized under RCW 66.24.146, must provide, for free or for a charge, food offerings to customers during public service hours. For the purposes of this section, "food offerings" means a combination of small serving food items to include a mix of hors d'oeuvre type foods, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, deli-style meats, chips, pretzels, nuts, popcorn, crackers, or similar items.
(2) A distillery providing food offerings under this section must comply with the local city or county health requirements for such level of service.
(3) In addition to the food offerings requirement in subsection (1) of this section, distillers and craft distillers shall post, in a conspicuous place within any tasting room, a list of at least five local restaurants or food trucks where customers can purchase food for consumption in the tasting room. The list shall include names, addresses, contact information, and hours of operation for each restaurant or food truck named.
(4) Distilleries that have secured spirits, beer, and wine retail license privileges under RCW 66.24.400 shall not allow customers to bring in food from outside restaurants or food trucks and are not subject to the provision of subsections (1) and (3) of this section.
(5) Requirements for food offerings shall be determined by the board in rule. The rules for food offerings shall:
(a) Include the ability for such food to be prepackaged for individual sale and consumption;
(b) Allow food offerings to be preprepared off-site for plating for the customer;
(c) Not require any warming, cooking, or heating off-site or on-site prior to service; and
(d) Not require the installation, maintenance, or use of any food heating device or apparatus to prepare any food offerings.
(6) A distillery licensed under RCW 66.24.140 or 66.24.145, or an off-site tasting room authorized under RCW 66.24.146, may install and use any type of commercial heating device or element to heat food offerings under this section without impacting their privileges under chapter 238, Laws of 2020.
[ 2020 c 238 s 4. ]
(1) Of the off-site tasting rooms allowed in this chapter, any distillery, craft distillery, domestic winery, or any combination of licensees thereof, licensed under this chapter may jointly occupy and co-operate up to two off-site locations, which may be indoors, outdoors, or a combination thereof, at which they may sample, serve, and sell products of their own production and products authorized to be sampled, served, and sold under the terms of their license. The licensees must maintain separate storage of products and separate financials. The distillery or craft distillery tasting rooms referenced in this section shall be the off-site tasting rooms allowed, and have the privileges and limitations provided in this chapter. This section does not create additional numbers of authorized tasting rooms beyond what is authorized by this section, RCW 66.24.146, and in RCW 66.24.140, 66.24.145, 66.28.040, 66.24.630, and 66.28.310.
(2) Any domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, or craft distillery licensed under this chapter, or any combination of licensees thereof, whose property parcels or buildings are located in direct physical proximity to one another may share a standing or seated tasting area for patrons to use, which may be indoors, outdoors, or a combination thereof. Each licensee may sample, serve, and sell products the licensee is authorized to sample, serve, and sell under the terms of its license, for on-premises consumption in the jointly operated consumption area. Each licensee must use distinctly marked glassware or serving containers to identify the source of any product being consumed. The distillery or craft distillery tasting rooms shall be the on-site or off-site tasting rooms allowed, and have the privileges and limitations provided in this chapter.
(3) Licensees operating under this section must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to retailers.
(4) Licensees operating under this section must comply with all applicable laws and rules relating to sampling and serving, as may be allowed by their license type.
(5) All licensees who participate in:
(a) A jointly operated off-premises location allowed under subsection (1) of this section, or
(b) A conjoined consumption area allowed under subsection (2) of this section
must share staffing resources. All participating licensees shall be jointly responsible for any violation or enforcement issues unless it can be demonstrated that the violation or enforcement issue was due to one or more licensee's specific conduct or action, in which case the violation or enforcement applies only to those identified licensees.
(6) Every person who participates in any manner in the sale or service of samples or servings of spirits must obtain a class 12 alcohol server permit. Every person who participates in any manner in the sale or service of samples or servings of beer and wine must obtain a class 12 or class 13 alcohol server permit.
[ 2020 c 238 s 5. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10: See note following RCW 66.24.146.
(1) The number of licenses allowed to be issued for off-site tasting rooms authorized under RCW 66.24.146 shall not exceed one hundred fifty.
(2) The limitations in subsection (1) of this section do not apply to an off-site tasting room authorized under RCW 66.24.146 that has been granted a license under RCW 66.24.400.
[ 2020 c 238 s 6. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10: See note following RCW 66.24.146.
Nothing in this chapter prohibits a distillery licensed under RCW 66.24.140 or 66.24.145, or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, from obtaining a license under RCW 66.24.400 for the same premises.
[ 2020 c 238 s 7. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10: See note following RCW 66.24.146.
The board may adopt rules to implement chapter 238, Laws of 2020.
[ 2020 c 238 s 12. ]
(1) There shall be a license to manufacturers of liquor, including all kinds of manufacturers except those licensed as distillers, domestic brewers, microbreweries, wineries, and domestic wineries, authorizing such licensees to manufacture, import, sell, and export liquor from the state; fee $750 per annum.
(2) Manufacturers licensed under this section may contract with licensed liquor distillers, craft distillers, domestic brewers, microbreweries, wineries, and domestic wineries to provide packaging services that include, but are not limited to:
(a) Canning, bottling, and bagging of alcoholic beverages;
(b) Mixing products before packaging; and
(c) Receiving and returning products to the originating liquor licensed businesses as part of a contract.
(3) Holders of a manufacturer's license:
(a) May contract with other nonliquor licensed businesses if the contract does not include alcohol products;
(b) May not contract directly or indirectly with any retail liquor licensee for the sale of alcohol products, unless they are medicinal, culinary, or toilet preparations not usable as beverages, as described in RCW 66.12.070;
(c) May not engage in direct liquor sales to retail liquor licensees, except for the sale of alcohol products described in RCW 66.12.070; and
(d) May not mix or infuse THC, CBD, or any other cannabinoid into any products containing alcohol.
[ 2025 c 343 s 8; 2019 c 156 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 2; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 29; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23A) (adding new section 23-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23A. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) The state liquor and cannabis board must, by rule, adopt a schedule of penalties for a licensed alcohol manufacturer who has committed a violation as part of the licensee's ancillary activities.
(2)(a) The schedule of penalties adopted under subsection (1) of this section may include:
(i) The issuance of a monetary penalty;
(ii) The suspension, revocation, or cancellation of the licensee's ability to conduct ancillary activities; or
(iii) A monetary option in lieu of suspension or revocation.
(b) The schedule of penalties may not include the issuance of a suspension, revocation, or cancellation of an alcohol manufacturer's license and may not exceed the schedule of penalties for a similar violation committed by a retail licensee.
(3) For the purposes of this section, "ancillary activities" means the licensee's activities involving the public, as authorized by statute or by state liquor and cannabis board rule, relating to serving samples, operating a tasting room, conducting retail sales, serving alcohol under a restaurant license issued under this chapter, or serving alcohol with a special occasion license.
[ 2018 c 25 s 1. ]
A spirits importer's license may be issued to any qualified person, firm or corporation, entitling the holder thereof to import into the state any liquor other than beer or wine; to store the same within the state, and to sell and export the same from the state; fee $2,100 per annum. Such spirits importer's license is subject to all conditions and restrictions imposed by this title or by the rules and regulations of the board, and is issued only upon such terms and conditions as may be imposed by the board.
[ 2025 c 343 s 9; 2012 c 2 s 207 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 30; 1970 ex.s. c 13 s 1. Prior: 1969 ex.s. c 275 s 2; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 1; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23J) (adding new section 23-J to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306 (23J). ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) There is a retail license to be designated as the local wine industry association license to be issued to a nonprofit society or organization specifically created with the express purpose of encouraging consumer education of and promoting the economic development for a designated area of the Washington state wine industry.
(2) The local wine industry association licensee may purchase or receive donations of wine from domestic winery licensees and certificate of approval holders and use such wine for promotional or marketing purposes. Events or marketing programs conducted by the local wine industry association licensee may be held on domestic winery premises, including the premises of additional locations authorized under RCW 66.24.170(4), as long as the domestic winery and the local wine industry association licensee each separately account for the sales of its wine. Domestic wineries and additional locations authorized under RCW 66.24.170(4) are not subject to the restrictions of RCW 66.28.305, but only while participating in an event or marketing program conducted by the holder of this license.
(3) The holder of the local wine industry association license must notify the board of any event or marketing program conducted under the license at least 45 days before the event or start of the marketing program.
(4) The annual fee for the local wine industry association license is $700 per calendar year.
(5) Nothing in this section prohibits the holder of the local wine industry association license access to the special occasion license under RCW 66.24.380 or special permits under RCW 66.20.010.
(6) Wine furnished to a nonprofit society under this section is subject to the taxes imposed under RCW 66.24.210.
(7) A licensee under this section may conduct no more than 12 events per year.
(8) All licensees participating in an event or marketing program conducted under a license issued under this section are jointly responsible for any violation or enforcement issues arising out of the event or marketing program unless it can be demonstrated that the violation or enforcement issue was due to one or more licensee's specific conduct or action, in which case the violation or enforcement issue applies only to those identified licensees.
[ 2025 c 343 s 10; 2020 c 210 s 1. ]
(1) There is a license for domestic wineries; fee to be computed only on the liters manufactured: Less than 250,000 liters per year, $150 per year; and 250,000 liters or more per year, $600 per year.
(2) The license allows for the manufacture of wine in Washington state from grapes or other agricultural products.
(3) Any domestic winery licensed under this section may also act as a retailer of wine of its own production. Any domestic winery licensed under this section may act as a distributor of its own production. Notwithstanding any language in this title to the contrary, a domestic winery may use a common carrier to deliver up to 100 cases of its own production, in the aggregate, per month to licensed Washington retailers. A domestic winery may not arrange for any such common carrier shipments to licensed retailers of wine not of its own production. Except as provided in this section, any winery operating as a distributor and/or retailer under this subsection must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to distributors and/or retailers, except that a winery operating as a distributor may maintain a warehouse off the premises of the winery for the distribution of wine of its own production provided that: (a) The warehouse has been approved by the board under RCW 66.24.010; and (b) the number of warehouses off the premises of the winery does not exceed one.
(4)(a) A domestic winery licensed under this section, at locations separate from any of its production or manufacturing sites, may serve samples of its own products, with or without charge, may sell wine of its own production at retail, and may sell for off-premises consumption wines of its own production in kegs or sanitary containers meeting the applicable requirements of federal law brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap at the time of sale, provided that: (i) Each additional location has been approved by the board under RCW 66.24.010; (ii) the total number of additional locations does not exceed four; (iii) a winery may not act as a distributor at any such additional location; and (iv) any person selling or serving wine at an additional location for on-premises consumption must obtain a class 12 or class 13 alcohol server permit. Each additional location is deemed to be part of the winery license for the purpose of this title. At additional locations operated by multiple wineries under this section, if the board cannot connect a violation of RCW 66.44.200 or 66.44.270 to a single licensee, the board may hold all licensees operating the additional location jointly liable. Nothing in this subsection may be construed to prevent a domestic winery from holding multiple domestic winery licenses.
(b) A customer of a domestic winery may remove from the premises of the domestic winery or from a tasting room location approved under (a) of this subsection, recorked or recapped in its original container, any portion of wine purchased for on-premises consumption.
(5)(a) A domestic winery licensed under this section may apply to the board for an endorsement to sell wine of its own production at retail for off-premises consumption at a qualifying farmers market. The annual fee for this endorsement is $112.50. An endorsement issued pursuant to this subsection does not count toward the four additional retail locations limit specified in this section.
(b) For each month during which a domestic winery will sell wine at a qualifying farmers market, the winery must provide the board or its designee a list of the dates, times, and locations at which bottled wine may be offered for sale. This list must be received by the board before the winery may offer wine for sale at a qualifying farmers market.
(c) The wine sold at qualifying farmers markets must be made entirely from grapes grown in a recognized Washington appellation or from other agricultural products grown in this state.
(d) Each approved location in a qualifying farmers market is deemed to be part of the winery license for the purpose of this title. The approved locations under an endorsement granted under this subsection include tasting or sampling privileges subject to the conditions pursuant to RCW 66.24.175. The winery may not store wine at a farmers market beyond the hours that the winery offers bottled wine for sale. The winery may not act as a distributor from a farmers market location.
(e) Before a winery may sell bottled wine at a qualifying farmers market, the farmers market must apply to the board for authorization for any winery with an endorsement approved under this subsection to sell bottled wine at retail at the farmers market. This application shall include, at a minimum: (i) A map of the farmers market showing all booths, stalls, or other designated locations at which an approved winery may sell bottled wine; and (ii) the name and contact information for the on-site market managers who may be contacted by the board or its designee to verify the locations at which bottled wine may be sold. Before authorizing a qualifying farmers market to allow an approved winery to sell bottled wine at retail at its farmers market location, the board must notify the persons or entities of such application for authorization pursuant to RCW 66.24.010 (8) and (9). An authorization granted under this subsection (5)(e) may be withdrawn by the board for any violation of this title or any rules adopted under this title.
(f) The board may adopt rules establishing the application and approval process under this section and such additional rules as may be necessary to implement this section.
(g) For the purposes of this subsection:
(i) "Qualifying farmers market" means an entity that sponsors a regular assembly of vendors at a defined location for the purpose of promoting the sale of agricultural products grown or produced in this state directly to the consumer under conditions that meet the following minimum requirements:
(A) There are at least five participating vendors who are farmers selling their own agricultural products;
(B) The total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are farmers exceeds the total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are processors or resellers. However, if a farmers market does not satisfy this subsection (5)(g)(i)(B), a farmers market is still considered a "qualifying farmers market" if the total combined gross annual sales of farmers and processors at the farmers market is $1,000,000 or more;
(C) The total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are farmers, processors, or resellers exceeds the total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are not farmers, processors, or resellers;
(D) The sale of imported items and secondhand items by any vendor is prohibited; and
(E) No vendor is a franchisee.
(ii) "Farmer" means a natural person who sells, with or without processing, agricultural products that he or she raises on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iii) "Processor" means a natural person who sells processed food that he or she has personally prepared on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iv) "Reseller" means a natural person who buys agricultural products from a farmer and resells the products directly to the consumer.
(6) Wine produced in Washington state by a domestic winery licensee may be shipped out-of-state for the purpose of making it into sparkling wine and then returned to such licensee for resale. Such wine is deemed wine manufactured in the state of Washington for the purposes of RCW 66.24.206, and shall not require a special license.
(7) During an event held by a nonprofit holding a special occasion license issued under RCW 66.24.380, a domestic winery licensed under this section may take orders, either in writing or electronically, and accept payment for wines of its own production under the following conditions:
(a) Wine produced by the domestic winery may be served for on-premises consumption by the special occasion licensee;
(b) The domestic winery delivers wine to the consumer on a date after the conclusion of the special occasion event;
(c) The domestic winery delivers wine to the consumer at a location different from the location at which the special occasion event is held;
(d) The domestic winery complies with all requirements in chapter 66.20 RCW for direct sale of wine to consumers;
(e) The wine is not sold for resale; and
(f) The domestic winery is entitled to all proceeds from the sale and delivery of its wine to a consumer after the conclusion of the special occasion event, but may enter into an agreement to share a portion of the proceeds of these sales with the special occasion licensee licensed under RCW 66.24.380.
[ 2025 c 343 s 11; (2022 c 116 s 9 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 3; 2019 c 169 s 1; 2017 c 238 s 1; 2016 c 235 s 1. Prior: 2014 c 105 s 1; 2014 c 27 s 1; 2013 c 238 s 2; 2009 c 373 s 4; (2011 c 62 s 2 expired December 1, 2012); 2008 c 41 s 5; 2007 c 16 s 2; 2006 c 302 s 1; 2003 c 44 s 1; 2000 c 141 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 3; 1991 c 192 s 2; 1982 c 85 s 4; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 31; 1939 c 172 s 1 (23C); 1937 c 217 s 1 (23C) (adding new section 23-C to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23C. Formerly RCW 66.24.170, 66.24.180, and 66.24.190. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Expiration date—2011 c 62: "This act expires December 1, 2012." [ 2011 c 62 s 5.]
Effective date—2006 c 302: "Except for sections 10 and 12 of this act, this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect April 14, 2006." [ 2006 c 302 s 16.]
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) A qualifying farmers market authorized to allow wineries to sell bottled wine at retail under RCW 66.24.170 or microbreweries to sell bottled beer at retail under RCW 66.24.244, or both, may apply to the *liquor control board for an endorsement to allow sampling of wine or beer or both. A winery or microbrewery offering samples under this section must have an endorsement from the board to sell wine or beer, as the case may be, of its own production at a qualifying farmers market under RCW 66.24.170 or 66.24.244, respectively.
(2) Samples may be offered only under the following conditions:
(a) No more than three wineries or microbreweries combined may offer samples at a qualifying farmers market per day.
(b) Samples must be two ounces or less. A winery or microbrewery may provide a maximum of two ounces of wine or beer to a customer per day.
(c) A winery or microbrewery may advertise that it offers samples only at its designated booth, stall, or other designated location at the farmers market.
(d) Customers must remain at the designated booth, stall, or other designated location while sampling beer or wine.
(e) Winery and microbrewery licensees and employees who are involved in sampling activities under this section must hold a class 12 or class 13 alcohol server permit.
(f) A winery or microbrewery must have food available for customers to consume while sampling beer or wine, or must be adjacent to a vendor offering prepared food.
(3) The board may establish additional requirements to ensure that persons under twenty-one years of age and apparently intoxicated persons may not possess or consume alcohol under the authority granted in this section.
(4) The board may prohibit sampling at a farmers market that is within the boundaries of an alcohol impact area recognized by resolution of the board if the board finds that the sampling activities at the farmers market have an adverse effect on the reduction of chronic public inebriation in the area.
(5) If a winery or microbrewery is found to have committed a public safety violation in conjunction with tasting activities, the board may suspend the licensee's farmers market endorsement and not reissue the endorsement for up to two years from the date of the violation. If mitigating circumstances exist, the board may offer a monetary penalty in lieu of suspension during a settlement conference.
(6) For the purposes of this section, a "qualifying farmers market" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 66.24.170.
[ 2014 c 105 s 2; 2013 c 238 s 1. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
(1) There is a wine retailer reseller endorsement to a beer and/or wine specialty shop license issued under RCW 66.24.371, to sell wine at retail in original containers to retailers licensed to sell wine for consumption on the premises, for resale at their licensed premises according to the terms of the license. For the purposes of this title, a beer and/or wine specialty shop license is a retail license, and a sale by a beer and/or wine specialty shop license with a reseller endorsement is a retail sale only if not for resale. The annual fee for the wine retailer reseller endorsement is $165 for each store.
(2) A beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee with a wine retailer reseller endorsement issued under this section may accept delivery of wine at its licensed premises or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, and from which it may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted by this title, to other licensed premises, to other registered facilities, or to lawful purchasers outside the state. Facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of beer and/or wine specialty shop licensees.
(3) A beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee, selling wine under the endorsement created in this section, may sell a maximum of 5,000 liters of wine per day for resale to retailers licensed to sell wine for consumption on the premises.
[ 2025 c 343 s 12; 2025 c 95 s 2; 2016 c 190 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 95 s 2 and by 2025 c 343 s 12, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
(1) There shall be a license for bonded wine warehouses which shall authorize the storage and handling of bottled wine. Under this license a licensee may maintain a warehouse for the storage of wine off the premises of a winery.
(2) The board shall adopt similar qualifications for a bonded wine warehouse license as required for obtaining a domestic winery license as specified in RCW 66.24.010 and 66.24.170. A licensee must be a sole proprietor, a partnership, a limited liability company, or a corporation. One or more domestic wineries may operate as a partnership, corporation, business co-op, or agricultural co-op for the purposes of obtaining a bonded wine warehouse license.
(3) All bottled wine shipped to a bonded wine warehouse from a winery or another bonded wine warehouse shall remain under bond and no tax imposed under RCW 66.24.210 shall be due, unless the wine is removed from bond and shipped to a licensed Washington wine distributor. Wine may be removed from a bonded wine warehouse only for the purpose of being (a) exported from the state, (b) shipped to a licensed Washington wine distributor, (c) returned to a winery or bonded wine warehouse, or (d) shipped to a consumer pursuant to RCW 66.20.360 through 66.20.390.
(4) Warehousing of wine by any person other than (a) a licensed domestic winery or a bonded wine warehouse licensed under the provisions of this section, (b) a licensed Washington wine distributor, (c) a licensed Washington wine importer, (d) a wine certificate of approval holder (W7), or (e) the board, is prohibited.
(5) A license applicant shall hold a federal permit for a bonded wine cellar and may be required to post a continuing wine tax bond of such an amount and in such a form as may be required by the board prior to the issuance of a bonded wine warehouse license. The fee for this license shall be $150 per annum.
(6) The board shall adopt rules requiring a bonded wine warehouse to be physically secure, zoned for the intended use and physically separated from any other use.
(7) Every licensee shall submit to the board a monthly report of movement of bottled wines to and from a bonded wine warehouse in a form prescribed by the board. The board may adopt other necessary procedures by which bonded wine warehouses are licensed and regulated.
(8) Handling of bottled wine, as provided for in this section, includes packaging and repackaging services; bottle labeling services; creating baskets or variety packs that may or may not include nonwine products; and picking, packing, and shipping wine orders direct to consumer. A winery contracting with a bonded wine warehouse for handling bottled wine must comply with all applicable state and federal laws and shall be responsible for financial transactions in direct to consumer shipping activities.
[ 2025 c 343 s 13; 2008 c 41 s 4; 1999 c 281 s 4; 1997 c 321 s 4; 1984 c 19 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Wine may be transferred from one licensed location to another licensed location so long as both locations are under common ownership. A licensed site may transfer up to a total of twenty cases of wine per calendar year.
[ 2009 c 373 s 10. ]
There shall be a license for wine distributors to sell wine, purchased from licensed Washington wineries, wine certificate of approval holders, licensed wine importers, or suppliers of foreign wine located outside of the United States, to licensed wine retailers, other wine distributors, and holders of annual special permits issued under *RCW 66.20.010(18), and to export the same from the state; fee $990 per year for each distributing unit.
[ 2025 c 343 s 14; 2023 c 257 s 2; 2004 c 160 s 2; 1997 c 321 s 5; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 32; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 2; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23K) (adding new section 23-K to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23K. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 66.20.010 was amended by 2025 c 167 s 1, changing subsection (18) to subsection (17).
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
There shall be a license for wine importers that authorizes the licensee to import wine purchased from certificate of approval holders into the state of Washington. The licensee may also import, from suppliers located outside of the United States, wine manufactured outside the United States.
(1) Wine so imported may be sold to licensed wine distributors or exported from the state.
(2) Every person, firm, or corporation licensed as a wine importer shall establish and maintain a principal office within the state at which shall be kept proper records of all wine imported into the state under this license.
(3) No wine importer's license shall be granted to a nonresident of the state nor to a corporation whose principal place of business is outside the state until such applicant has established a principal office and agent within the state upon which service can be made.
(4) As a requirement for license approval, a wine importer shall enter into a written agreement with the board to furnish on or before the 20th day of each month, a report under oath, detailing the quantity of wine sold or delivered to each licensed wine distributor. Failure to file such reports may result in the suspension or cancellation of this license.
(5) Wine imported under this license must conform to the provisions of RCW 66.28.110 and have received label approval from the board. The board shall not certify wines labeled with names that may be confused with other nonalcoholic beverages whether manufactured or produced from a domestic winery or imported nor wines that fail to meet quality standards established by the board.
(6) The license fee shall be $240 per year.
[ 2025 c 343 s 15; 2004 c 160 s 3; 1997 c 321 s 6. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1)(a) A United States winery located outside the state of Washington must hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipment of the certificate of approval holder's wine to licensed Washington wine distributors, importers, or retailers. A certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement may act as a distributor of its own production. Notwithstanding any language in this title to the contrary, a certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement may use a common carrier to deliver up to one hundred cases of its own production, in the aggregate, per month to licensed Washington retailers. A certificate of approval holder may not arrange for any such common carrier shipments to licensed retailers of wine not of its own production.
(b) Authorized representatives must hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipment of United States produced wine to licensed Washington wine distributors or importers.
(c) Authorized representatives must also hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipments of foreign produced wine to licensed Washington wine distributors or importers.
(2) The certificate of approval shall not be granted unless and until such winery or authorized representative shall have made a written agreement with the board to furnish to the board, on or before the twentieth day of each month, a report under oath, on a form to be prescribed by the board, showing the quantity of wine sold or delivered to each licensed wine distributor, importer, or retailer, during the preceding month, and shall further have agreed with the board, that such wineries, manufacturers, or authorized representatives, and all general sales corporations or agencies maintained by them, and all of their trade representatives, shall and will faithfully comply with all laws of the state of Washington pertaining to the sale of intoxicating liquors and all rules and regulations of the Washington *state liquor control board. A violation of the terms of this agreement will cause the board to take action to suspend or revoke such certificate.
(3) The fee for the certificate of approval and related endorsements, issued pursuant to the provisions of this title, shall be from time to time established by the board at a level that is sufficient to defray the costs of administering the certificate of approval program. The fee shall be fixed by rule by the board in accordance with the provisions of the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
(4) Certificate of approval holders are deemed to have consented to the jurisdiction of Washington concerning enforcement of this chapter and all laws and rules related to the sale and shipment of wine.
[ 2007 c 16 s 1; 2006 c 302 s 4; 2004 c 160 s 4; 1997 c 321 s 7; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 34; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 13; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 10. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—2006 c 302: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
(1) There is hereby imposed upon all wines except cider sold to wine distributors within the state a tax at the rate of twenty and one-fourth cents per liter. Any domestic winery or certificate of approval holder acting as a distributor of its own production must pay taxes imposed by this section. There is hereby imposed on all cider sold to wine distributors within the state a tax at the rate of three and fifty-nine one-hundredths cents per liter. However, wine sold or shipped in bulk from one winery to another winery is not subject to such tax.
(a) The tax provided for in this section shall be collected by direct payments based on wine purchased by wine distributors.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (7) of this section, every person purchasing wine under the provisions of this section must on or before the twentieth day of each month report to the board all purchases during the preceding calendar month in such manner and upon such forms as may be prescribed by the board, and with such report must pay the tax due from the purchases covered by such report unless the same has previously been paid. Any such purchaser of wine whose applicable tax payment is not postmarked by the twentieth day following the month of purchase will be assessed a penalty at the rate of two percent a month or fraction thereof. The board may require that every such person shall execute to and file with the board a bond to be approved by the board, in such amount as the board may fix, securing the payment of the tax. If any such person fails to pay the tax when due, the board may suspend or cancel the license until all taxes are paid.
(c) Any licensed retailer authorized to purchase wine from a certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement or a domestic winery must make monthly reports to the liquor and cannabis board on wine purchased during the preceding calendar month in the manner and upon such forms as may be prescribed by the board.
(2) An additional tax is imposed equal to the rate specified in RCW 82.02.030 multiplied by the tax payable under subsection (1) of this section. All revenues collected during any month from this additional tax must be transferred to the state general fund by the twenty-fifth day of the following month.
(3) An additional tax is imposed on wines subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section, at the rate of one-fourth of one cent per liter for wine sold after June 30, 1987. After June 30, 1996, such additional tax does not apply to cider. An additional tax of five one-hundredths of one cent per liter is imposed on cider sold after June 30, 1996. All revenues collected under this subsection (3) shall be disbursed quarterly to the Washington wine commission for use in carrying out the purposes of chapter 15.88 RCW.
(4) An additional tax is imposed on all wine subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to twenty-three and forty-four one-hundredths cents per liter on fortified wine as defined in RCW 66.04.010 when bottled or packaged by the manufacturer, one cent per liter on all other wine except cider, and eighteen one-hundredths of one cent per liter on cider. All revenues collected during any month from this additional tax shall be deposited in the state general fund by the twenty-fifth day of the following month.
(5)(a) An additional tax is imposed on all cider subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to two and four one-hundredths cents per liter of cider sold after June 30, 1996, and before July 1, 1997, and is equal to four and seven one-hundredths cents per liter of cider sold after June 30, 1997.
(b) All revenues collected from the additional tax imposed under this subsection (5) must be deposited in the state general fund.
(6) For the purposes of this section, "cider" means table wine that contains not less than one-half of one percent of alcohol by volume and not more than eight and one-half percent of alcohol by volume and is made from the normal alcoholic fermentation of the juice of sound, ripe apples or pears. "Cider" includes, but is not limited to, flavored, sparkling, or carbonated cider and cider made from condensed apple or pear must.
(7) For the purposes of this section, out-of-state wineries must pay taxes under this section on wine sold and shipped directly to Washington state residents in a manner consistent with the requirements of a wine distributor under subsections (1) through (4) of this section, except wineries shall be responsible for the tax and not the resident purchaser.
(8) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, any domestic winery or wine certificate of approval holder acting as a distributor of its own production that had total taxable sales of wine in Washington state of six thousand gallons or less during the calendar year preceding the date on which the tax would otherwise be due is not required to pay taxes under this section more often than annually.
[ 2023 c 470 s 1012. Prior: 2016 c 235 s 12; 2016 c 225 s 1; 2012 c 20 s 2; 2009 c 479 s 42; 2008 c 94 s 8; prior: 2006 c 302 s 5; 2006 c 101 s 4; 2006 c 49 s 8; 2001 c 124 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 8; 1996 c 118 s 1; 1995 c 232 s 3; 1994 sp.s. c 7 s 901 (Referendum Bill No. 43, approved November 8, 1994); 1993 c 160 s 2; 1991 c 192 s 3; 1989 c 271 s 501; 1987 c 452 s 11; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 s 10; 1982 1st ex.s. c 35 s 23; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 12; 1973 1st ex.s. c 204 s 2; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 3; 1943 c 216 s 2; 1939 c 172 s 3; 1935 c 158 s 3 (adding new section 24-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-24A. Formerly RCW 66.04.120, 66.24.210, part, 66.24.220, and 66.24.230, part. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 25, part, now codified as RCW 66.24.230. ]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2023 c 470: See note following RCW 10.99.030.
Effective date—2009 c 479: See note following RCW 2.56.030.
Effective date—2006 c 302: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
Effective date—2001 c 124: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2001." [ 2001 c 124 s 2.]
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1996 c 118: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1996." [ 1996 c 118 s 2.]
Contingent partial referendum—1994 sp.s. c 7 ss 901-909: "Sections 901 through 909, chapter 7, Laws of 1994 sp. sess. shall be submitted as a single ballot measure to the people for their adoption and ratification, or rejection, at the next succeeding general election to be held in this state, in accordance with Article II, section 1 of the state Constitution, as amended, and the laws adopted to facilitate the operation thereof unless section 13, chapter 2, Laws of 1994, has been declared invalid or otherwise enjoined or stayed by a court of competent jurisdiction." [ 1994 sp.s. c 7 s 911 (Referendum Bill No. 43, approved November 8, 1994).]
Reviser's note: Sections 901 through 909, chapter 7, Laws of 1994 sp. sess., were adopted and ratified by the people at the November 8, 1994, general election.
Finding—Intent—Severability—1994 sp.s. c 7: See notes following RCW 43.70.540.
Effective date—1993 c 160: See note following RCW 66.12.180.
Effective dates—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 66.28.200.
Severability—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.
Construction—Effective dates—1987 c 452: See RCW 15.88.900 and 15.88.901.
Construction—Severability—Effective dates—1983 2nd ex.s. c 3: See notes following RCW 82.04.255.
Severability—Effective dates—1982 1st ex.s. c 35: See notes following RCW 82.08.020.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Floor stocks tax: "There is hereby imposed upon every licensed wine distributor who possesses wine for resale upon which the tax has not been paid under section 2, chapter 204, Laws of 1973, a floor stocks tax of sixty-five cents per wine gallon on wine in his or her possession or under his or her control on June 30, 1973. Each such distributor shall within twenty days after June 30, 1973, file a report with the Washington state liquor control board in such form as the board may prescribe, showing the wine products on hand July 1, 1973, converted to gallons thereof and the amount of tax due thereon. The tax imposed by this section shall be due and payable within twenty days after July 1, 1973, and thereafter bear interest at the rate of one percent per month." [ 1997 c 321 s 9; 1973 1st ex.s. c 204 s 3.]
Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 204: See note following RCW 82.08.150.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Giving away liquor prohibited—Exceptions: RCW 66.28.040.
No tax on wine shipped to bonded warehouse: RCW 66.24.185.
(1) To provide for permanent funding of the wine commission after July 1, 1989, agricultural commodity assessments must be levied by the board on wine producers and growers as follows:
(a) Beginning on July 1, 1989, the assessment on wine producers is two cents per gallon on sales of packaged Washington wines.
(b) Beginning on July 1, 1989, the assessment on growers of Washington vinifera wine grapes is levied as provided in RCW 15.88.130.
(c) After July 1, 1993, assessment rates under (a) of this subsection may be changed pursuant to a referendum conducted by the Washington wine commission and approved by a majority vote of wine producers. The weight of each producer's vote must be equal to the percentage of that producer's share of Washington vinifera wine production in the prior year.
(d) After July 1, 1993, assessment amounts under (b) of this subsection may be changed pursuant to a referendum conducted by the Washington wine commission and approved by a majority vote of grape growers. The weight of each grower's vote must be equal to the percentage of that grower's share of Washington vinifera grape sales in the prior year.
(e) After July 1, 2015, the assessment amounts under this section may not be levied on the production of cider as defined in RCW 66.24.210.
(f) After January 1, 2018, the assessment amounts under this section may not be levied on the production of mead. For purposes of this section, "mead" means a wine or malt beverage of which honey represents the largest percentage of the starting fermentable sugars by weight of the finished product and that:
(i) Is derived from a mixture of honey and water, which may contain hops, fruit, spices, grain, and other agricultural products or flavors; and
(ii) Is sold or offered for sale as mead.
(2) Assessments collected under this section must be disbursed quarterly to the Washington wine commission for use in carrying out the purposes of chapter 15.88 RCW.
(3) Prior to July 1, 1996, a referendum must be conducted to determine whether to continue the Washington wine commission as representing both wine producers and grape growers. The voting may not be weighted. The wine producers must vote whether to continue the commission's coverage of wineries and wine production. The grape producers must vote whether to continue the commission's coverage of issues pertaining to grape growing. If a majority of both wine and grape producers favor the continuation of the commission, the assessments must continue as provided in subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section. If only one group of producers favors the continuation, the assessments may only be levied on the group which favored the continuation.
[ 2017 c 8 s 1; 2015 c 76 s 2; 1988 c 257 s 7; 1987 c 452 s 13. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—2015 c 76: "The legislature finds that the commodity assessment authorized in RCW 66.24.215 is applied to makers of cider as defined in RCW 66.24.210 but by definition is focused on the marketing and support of vinifera wine grape growers and vinifera wine producers. The rapid growth and strong market potential of the Washington cider industry require marketing efforts that are focused on cider products as a unique beverage category. The legislature intends to allow cider makers to support their own marketing efforts, which will benefit the cider industry by exempting them from an assessment that primarily supports vinifera wine." [ 2015 c 76 s 1.]
Effective date—2015 c 76: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2015." [ 2015 c 76 s 3.]
Construction—Effective dates—1987 c 452: See RCW 15.88.900 and 15.88.901.
Every domestic winery, wine certificate of approval holder, wine importer, and wine distributor licensed under this title shall make reports to the board of its operations, pursuant to such regulations as the board may adopt. However, such reports, including without limitation tax returns pursuant to RCW 66.24.210, may not be required more frequently than annually from any winery or wine certificate of approval holder that had total taxable sales of wine in Washington state of six thousand gallons or less during the calendar year preceding the date on which the report would otherwise be due. Such domestic winery, wine certificate of approval holder, wine importer, and wine distributor shall make no sales of wine within the state of Washington except to the board, or as otherwise provided in this title.
[ 2012 c 20 s 1; 2004 c 160 s 5; 1997 c 321 s 10; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 4; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 25; RRS s 7306-25. Formerly RCW 66.24.210 and 66.24.230. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1943 c 216 s 2, part, now codified in RCW 66.24.210. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
(1) There shall be a license for domestic breweries; fee to be $2,100 for production of 60,000 barrels or more of malt liquor per year.
(2) Any domestic brewery, except for a brand owner of malt beverages under RCW 66.04.010(7), licensed under this section may also act as a distributor and/or retailer for beer of its own production. Any domestic brewery operating as a distributor and/or retailer under this subsection shall comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to distributors and/or retailers. A domestic brewery holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license may sell beer of its own production for off-premises consumption from its restaurant premises in kegs or in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale.
(3) Any domestic brewery licensed under this section may also sell beer produced by another domestic brewery or a microbrewery for on and off-premises consumption from its premises as long as the other breweries' brands do not exceed 25 percent of the domestic brewery's on-tap offering of its own brands.
(4) A domestic brewery may hold up to four retail licenses to operate an on or off-premises tavern, beer and/or wine restaurant, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant, or any combination thereof. This retail license is separate from the brewery license. A brewery that holds a tavern license, a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, or a beer and/or wine restaurant license shall hold the same privileges and endorsements as permitted under RCW 66.24.320, 66.24.330, and 66.24.420. However, when qualifying for and maintaining a beer and/or wine restaurant license or a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, a domestic brewery may subcontract with one or more individuals or entities to satisfy food service requirements applicable to the beer and/or wine restaurant license or the spirits, beer, and/or wine restaurant license.
(5) Any domestic brewery licensed under this section may contract-produce beer for a brand owner of malt beverages defined under RCW 66.04.010(7), and this contract-production is not a sale for the purposes of RCW 66.28.170 and 66.28.180.
(6)(a) A domestic brewery licensed under this section and qualified for a reduced rate of taxation pursuant to RCW 66.24.290(3)(b) may apply to the board for an endorsement to sell bottled beer of its own production at retail for off-premises consumption at a qualifying farmers market. The annual fee for this endorsement is $112.50.
(b) For each month during which a domestic brewery will sell beer at a qualifying farmers market, the domestic brewery must provide the board or its designee a list of the dates, times, and locations at which bottled beer may be offered for sale. This list must be received by the board before the domestic brewery may offer beer for sale at a qualifying farmers market.
(c) The beer sold at qualifying farmers markets must be produced in Washington.
(d) Each approved location in a qualifying farmers market is deemed to be part of the domestic brewery license for the purpose of this title. The approved locations under an endorsement granted under this subsection do not include the tasting or sampling privilege of a domestic brewery. The domestic brewery may not store beer at a farmers market beyond the hours that the domestic brewery offers bottled beer for sale. The domestic brewery may not act as a distributor from a farmers market location.
(e) Before a domestic brewery may sell bottled beer at a qualifying farmers market, the farmers market must apply to the board for authorization for any domestic brewery with an endorsement approved under this subsection to sell bottled beer at retail at the farmers market. This application shall include, at a minimum: (i) A map of the farmers market showing all booths, stalls, or other designated locations at which an approved domestic brewery may sell bottled beer; and (ii) the name and contact information for the on-site market managers who may be contacted by the board or its designee to verify the locations at which bottled beer may be sold. Before authorizing a qualifying farmers market to allow an approved domestic brewery to sell bottled beer at retail at its farmers market location, the board shall notify the persons or entities of such application for authorization pursuant to RCW 66.24.010 (8) and (9). An authorization granted under this subsection (6)(e) may be withdrawn by the board for any violation of this title or any rules adopted under this title.
(f) The board may adopt rules establishing the application and approval process under this section and such additional rules as may be necessary to implement this section.
(g) For the purposes of this subsection:
(i) "Qualifying farmers market" means an entity that sponsors a regular assembly of vendors at a defined location for the purpose of promoting the sale of agricultural products grown or produced in this state directly to the consumer under conditions that meet the following minimum requirements:
(A) There are at least five participating vendors who are farmers selling their own agricultural products;
(B) The total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are farmers exceeds the total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are processors or resellers;
(C) The total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are farmers, processors, or resellers exceeds the total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are not farmers, processors, or resellers;
(D) The sale of imported items and secondhand items by any vendor is prohibited; and
(E) No vendor is a franchisee.
(ii) "Farmer" means a natural person who sells, with or without processing, agricultural products that he or she raises on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iii) "Processor" means a natural person who sells processed food that he or she has personally prepared on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iv) "Reseller" means a natural person who buys agricultural products from a farmer and resells the products directly to the consumer.
(7) The state board of health shall adopt rules to allow dogs on the premises of licensed domestic breweries that do not provide or subcontract for food service subject to a food service permit requirement.
(8)(a) Subject to (b) of this subsection, nothing in this title prohibits the use of a domestic brewery's licensed premises for the subcontracted and, where applicable, subleased operation of a mobile food unit, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or an independently operated food service provider or establishment by one or more persons or entities who sells food and nonalcoholic beverages to the public and does not hold a retail liquor license.
(b)(i) The premises used by the mobile food unit, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or independently operated food service provider or establishment, and the areas of the licensee's premises to which staff of the mobile food unit or independently operated food service provider or establishment may access, must be substantially separated from the storage of nontax-paid alcohol.
(ii) A person who subcontracts or subleases with a domestic brewery as provided in (a) of this subsection (8) is responsible for all kitchen space identified in the subcontract or sublease and for compliance with all applicable local health department regulations, including kitchen and food service permits. A diagram of the kitchen plan must be included in the subcontract or sublease, and the subcontract or sublease must evidence agreement of this space to be subcontracted or subleased. A domestic brewery subcontracting or subleasing space on its licensed premises as provided in (a) of this subsection (8) shall include in the subcontract or sublease a notification that the other party to the agreement is responsible for the entire subcontracted or subleased space and must hold necessary kitchen and food service permits from the applicable local jurisdiction.
[ 2025 c 343 s 16; 2025 c 141 s 1; (2022 c 116 s 10 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 4; 2020 c 230 s 1. Prior: 2011 c 195 s 6; 2011 c 119 s 212; 2008 c 41 s 7; (2008 c 41 s 6 expired June 30, 2008); 2007 c 370 s 7; (2007 c 370 s 6 expired June 30, 2008); prior: 2006 c 302 s 2; 2006 c 44 s 1; 2003 c 154 s 1; 2000 c 142 s 2; 1997 c 321 s 11; 1985 c 226 s 1; 1982 c 85 s 5; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 13; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23B) (adding new section 23-B to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23B. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 141 s 1 and by 2025 c 343 s 16, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Effective date—2008 c 41 ss 7 and 9: "Sections 7 and 9 of this act take effect June 30, 2008." [ 2008 c 41 s 15.]
Expiration date—2008 c 41 ss 6 and 8: "Sections 6 and 8 of this act expire June 30, 2008." [ 2008 c 41 s 14.]
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 5 and 7: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Expiration date—2007 c 370 ss 4 and 6: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Effective date—2006 c 302: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) There shall be a license for microbreweries; fee to be $150 for production of less than 60,000 barrels of malt liquor, including strong beer, per year.
(2)(a) Any microbrewery licensed under this section may also act as a distributor and/or retailer for beer and strong beer of its own production.
(b) Any microbrewery operating as a distributor and/or retailer under this subsection must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to distributors and/or retailers, except that a microbrewery operating as a distributor may maintain a warehouse off the premises of the microbrewery for the distribution of beer provided that:
(i) The warehouse has been approved by the board under RCW 66.24.010; and
(ii) The number of warehouses off the premises of the microbrewery does not exceed one.
(c) A microbrewery holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license may sell beer of its own production for off-premises consumption from its restaurant premises in kegs or in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale.
(3) Any microbrewery licensed under this section may also sell from its premises for on-premises and off-premises consumption:
(a) Beer produced by another microbrewery or a domestic brewery as long as the other breweries' brands do not exceed 25 percent of the microbrewery's on-tap offerings; or
(b) Cider produced by a domestic winery.
(4) The board may issue up to four retail licenses allowing a microbrewery to operate an on or off-premises tavern, beer and/or wine restaurant, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant, or any combination thereof.
(5) A microbrewery that holds a tavern license, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, or a beer and/or wine restaurant license holds the same privileges and endorsements as permitted under RCW 66.24.320, 66.24.330, and 66.24.420. However, when qualifying for and maintaining a beer and/or wine restaurant license or a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, a microbrewery may subcontract with one or more individuals or entities to satisfy food service requirements applicable to the beer and/or wine restaurant license or the spirits, beer, and/or wine restaurant license.
(6)(a) A microbrewery licensed under this section may apply to the board for an endorsement to sell bottled beer of its own production at retail for off-premises consumption at a qualifying farmers market. The annual fee for this endorsement is $112.50. However, strong beer may not be sold at a farmers market or under any endorsement which may authorize microbreweries to sell beer at farmers markets.
(b) For each month during which a microbrewery will sell beer at a qualifying farmers market, the microbrewery must provide the board or its designee a list of the dates, times, and locations at which bottled beer may be offered for sale. This list must be received by the board before the microbrewery may offer beer for sale at a qualifying farmers market.
(c) Any person selling or serving beer must obtain a class 12 or class 13 alcohol server permit.
(d) The beer sold at qualifying farmers markets must be produced in Washington.
(e) Each approved location in a qualifying farmers market is deemed to be part of the microbrewery license for the purpose of this title. The approved locations under an endorsement granted under this subsection (6) include tasting or sampling privileges subject to the conditions pursuant to RCW 66.24.175. The microbrewery may not store beer at a farmers market beyond the hours that the microbrewery offers bottled beer for sale. The microbrewery may not act as a distributor from a farmers market location.
(f) Before a microbrewery may sell bottled beer at a qualifying farmers market, the farmers market must apply to the board for authorization for any microbrewery with an endorsement approved under this subsection (6) to sell bottled beer at retail at the farmers market. This application must include, at a minimum: (i) A map of the farmers market showing all booths, stalls, or other designated locations at which an approved microbrewery may sell bottled beer; and (ii) the name and contact information for the on-site market managers who may be contacted by the board or its designee to verify the locations at which bottled beer may be sold. Before authorizing a qualifying farmers market to allow an approved microbrewery to sell bottled beer at retail at its farmers market location, the board must notify the persons or entities of the application for authorization pursuant to RCW 66.24.010 (8) and (9). An authorization granted under this subsection (6)(f) may be withdrawn by the board for any violation of this title or any rules adopted under this title.
(g) The board may adopt rules establishing the application and approval process under this section and any additional rules necessary to implement this section.
(h) For the purposes of this subsection (6):
(i) "Qualifying farmers market" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 66.24.170.
(ii) "Farmer" means a natural person who sells, with or without processing, agricultural products that he or she raises on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iii) "Processor" means a natural person who sells processed food that he or she has personally prepared on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iv) "Reseller" means a natural person who buys agricultural products from a farmer and resells the products directly to the consumer.
(7) Any microbrewery licensed under this section may contract-produce beer for another microbrewer. This contract-production is not a sale for the purposes of RCW 66.28.170 and 66.28.180.
(8) The state board of health shall adopt rules to allow dogs on the premises of licensed microbreweries that do not provide or contract for food service subject to a food service permit requirement.
(9)(a) Subject to (b) of this subsection, nothing in this title prohibits the use of a microbrewery's licensed premises for the subcontracted and, where applicable, subleased operation of a mobile food unit, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or an independently operated food service provider or establishment, by a person who sells food and nonalcoholic beverages to the public and does not hold a retail liquor license.
(b)(i) The premises used by the mobile food unit, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or independently operated food service provider or establishment, and the areas of the licensee's premises to which staff of such a mobile food unit or independently operated food service provider or establishment may access, must be substantially separated from the storage of nontax-paid alcohol.
(ii) A person who subcontracts or subleases with a microbrewery as provided in (a) of this subsection (9) is responsible for all kitchen space identified in the subcontract or sublease and for compliance with all applicable local health department regulations, including kitchen and food service permits. A diagram of the kitchen plan must be included in the subcontract or sublease, and the subcontract or sublease must evidence agreement of this space to be subcontracted or subleased. A microbrewery subcontracting or subleasing space on its licensed premises as provided in (a) of this subsection (9) shall include in the subcontract or sublease a notification that the other party to the agreement is responsible for the entire subcontracted or subleased space and must hold necessary kitchen and food service permits from the applicable local jurisdiction.
[ 2025 c 343 s 17; 2025 c 141 s 2; (2022 c 116 s 11 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 5; 2020 c 230 s 2; 2015 c 42 s 1; 2014 c 105 s 3; 2013 c 238 s 3; 2011 c 195 s 5; (2011 c 62 s 3 expired December 1, 2012). Prior: 2008 c 248 s 2; (2008 c 248 s 1 expired June 30, 2008); 2008 c 41 s 9; (2008 c 41 s 8 expired June 30, 2008); prior: 2007 c 370 s 5; (2007 c 370 s 4 expired June 30, 2008); 2007 c 222 s 2; (2007 c 222 s 1 expired June 30, 2008); 2006 c 302 s 3; 2006 c 44 s 2; prior: 2003 c 167 s 1; 2003 c 154 s 2; 1998 c 126 s 3; 1997 c 321 s 12. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 141 s 2 and by 2025 c 343 s 17, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Expiration date—2011 c 62: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
Effective date—2008 c 248 s 2: "Section 2 of this act takes effect June 30, 2008." [ 2008 c 248 s 4.]
Expiration date—2008 c 248 s 1: "Section 1 of this act expires June 30, 2008." [ 2008 c 248 s 3.]
Effective date—2008 c 41 ss 7 and 9: See note following RCW 66.24.240.
Expiration date—2008 c 41 ss 6 and 8: See note following RCW 66.24.240.
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 5 and 7: "Sections 5 and 7 of this act take effect June 30, 2008." [ 2007 c 370 s 22.]
Expiration date—2007 c 370 ss 4 and 6: "Sections 4 and 6 of this act expire June 30, 2008." [ 2007 c 370 s 21.]
Effective date—2007 c 222 s 2: "Section 2 of this act takes effect June 30, 2008." [ 2007 c 222 s 5.]
Expiration date—2007 c 222 s 1: "Section 1 of this act expires June 30, 2008." [ 2007 c 222 s 4.]
Effective date—2006 c 302: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
Effective date—2003 c 167: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2003." [ 2003 c 167 s 14.]
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) There is an on-premises endorsement available to any:
(a) Licensed domestic winery to sell beer, produced in Washington, by the single serving for on-premises consumption; and
(b) Licensed domestic brewery or microbrewery to sell wine, produced in Washington, by the single serving for on-premises consumption.
(2) The holder of the endorsement is limited to three offerings of beer for a domestic winery and three offerings of wine for a domestic brewery or microbrewery.
(3) The annual fee for the endorsement is $300 for each retail location.
[ 2025 c 343 s 18; 2020 c 186 s 1. ]
(1) There is an endorsement available to any liquor manufacturer licensed in this state under RCW 66.24.140, 66.24.145, 66.24.170, 66.24.240, or 66.24.244 whereby the licensee may contract with licensed liquor distillers, craft distillers, domestic brewers, microbreweries, wineries, and domestic wineries licensed in this state to provide packaging services that include, but are not limited to:
(a) Canning, bottling, and bagging of alcoholic beverages;
(b) Mixing products before packaging;
(c) Repacking of finished products into mixed consumer packs or multipacks; and
(d) Receiving and returning products to the originating liquor licensed businesses as part of a contract in which the contracting liquor licensed party for which the services are being provided retains title and ownership of the products at all times.
(2) Holders of the endorsement authorized under this section:
(a) May contract with other nonliquor licensed businesses if the contract does not include alcohol products;
(b) May not contract directly or indirectly with any retail liquor licensee for the sale of the alcohol products being packaged under this section, unless they are medicinal, culinary, or toilet preparations not usable as beverages, as described in RCW 66.12.070;
(c) May not engage in direct liquor sales to retail liquor licensees on behalf of the contracted party or the contracted party's products, except for the sale of alcohol products described in RCW 66.12.070; and
(d) May not mix or infuse THC, CBD, or any other cannabinoid into any products containing alcohol.
(3) The board shall approve a written request for an endorsement under this section for any authorized licensee in good standing at the time of the request without further requirement for additional licensing or administrative review.
(4) The annual fee for this endorsement is $150.
[ 2025 c 343 s 19; 2022 c 64 s 1. ]
There shall be a license for beer distributors to sell beer and strong beer, purchased from licensed Washington breweries, beer certificate of approval holders, licensed beer importers, or suppliers of foreign beer located outside of the United States, to licensed beer retailers and other beer distributors and to export same from the state of Washington; fee $990 per year for each distributing unit.
[ 2025 c 343 s 20; 2004 c 160 s 6; 2003 c 167 s 2; 1997 c 321 s 13; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 14; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23E) (adding new section 23-E to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23E. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: "The liquor control board shall report to the legislature by December 1, 2004, on the impacts of strong beer sales." [ 2003 c 167 s 13.]
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
There shall be a license for beer importers that authorizes the licensee to import beer and strong beer purchased from beer certificate of approval holders into the state of Washington. The licensee may also import, from suppliers located outside of the United States, beer and strong beer manufactured outside the United States.
(1) Beer and strong beer so imported may be sold to licensed beer distributors or exported from the state.
(2) Every person, firm, or corporation licensed as a beer importer shall establish and maintain a principal office within the state at which shall be kept proper records of all beer and strong beer imported into the state under this license.
(3) No beer importer's license shall be granted to a nonresident of the state nor to a corporation whose principal place of business is outside the state until such applicant has established a principal office and agent within the state upon which service can be made.
(4) As a requirement for license approval, a beer importer shall enter into a written agreement with the board to furnish on or before the 20th day of each month, a report under oath, detailing the quantity of beer and strong beer sold or delivered to each licensed beer distributor. Failure to file such reports may result in the suspension or cancellation of this license.
(5) Beer and strong beer imported under this license must conform to the provisions of RCW 66.28.120 and have received label approval from the board. The board shall not certify beer or strong beer labeled with names which may be confused with other nonalcoholic beverages whether manufactured or produced from a domestic brewery or imported nor shall it certify beer or strong beer which fails to meet quality standards established by the board.
(6) The license fee shall be $240 per year.
[ 2025 c 343 s 21; 2004 c 160 s 7; 2003 c 167 s 3; 1997 c 321 s 14. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) Every person, firm or corporation, holding a license to manufacture malt liquors or strong beer within the state of Washington, shall, on or before the twentieth day of each month, furnish to the Washington *state liquor control board, on a form to be prescribed by the board, a statement showing the quantity of malt liquors and strong beer sold for resale during the preceding calendar month to each beer distributor within the state of Washington.
(2)(a) A United States brewery or manufacturer of beer or strong beer, located outside the state of Washington, must hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipment of the certificate of approval holder's beer or strong beer to licensed Washington beer distributors, importers, or retailers. A certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement may act as a distributor for beer of its own production.
(b) Authorized representatives must hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipment of United States produced beer or strong beer to licensed Washington beer distributors or importers.
(c) Authorized representatives must also hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipments of foreign produced beer or strong beer to licensed Washington beer distributors or importers.
(3) The certificate of approval shall not be granted unless and until such brewer or manufacturer of beer or strong beer or authorized representative shall have made a written agreement with the board to furnish to the board, on or before the twentieth day of each month, a report under oath, on a form to be prescribed by the board, showing the quantity of beer and strong beer sold or delivered to each licensed beer distributor, importer, or retailer during the preceding month, and shall further have agreed with the board, that such brewer or manufacturer of beer or strong beer or authorized representative and all general sales corporations or agencies maintained by them, and all of their trade representatives, corporations, and agencies, shall and will faithfully comply with all laws of the state of Washington pertaining to the sale of intoxicating liquors and all rules and regulations of the Washington *state liquor control board. A violation of the terms of this agreement will cause the board to take action to suspend or revoke such certificate.
(4) The fee for the certificate of approval and related endorsements, issued pursuant to the provisions of this title, shall be from time to time established by the board at a level that is sufficient to defray the costs of administering the certificate of approval program. The fee shall be fixed by rule by the board in accordance with the provisions of the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
(5) Certificate of approval holders are deemed to have consented to the jurisdiction of Washington concerning enforcement of this chapter and all laws and rules related to the sale and shipment of beer.
[ 2006 c 302 s 6; 2004 c 160 s 8; 2003 c 167 s 4; 1997 c 321 s 15; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 35; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 14; 1969 ex.s. c 178 s 4; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23F) (adding new section 23-F to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23F. Formerly RCW 66.24.270 and 66.24.280. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—2006 c 302: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
(1) Any microbrewer or domestic brewery or beer distributor licensed under this title may sell and deliver beer and strong beer to holders of authorized licenses direct, but to no other person, other than the board. Any certificate of approval holder authorized to act as a distributor under RCW 66.24.270 shall pay the taxes imposed by this section.
(a) Every such brewery or beer distributor shall report all sales to the board monthly, pursuant to the regulations, and shall pay to the board as an added tax for the privilege of manufacturing and selling the beer and strong beer within the state a tax of one dollar and thirty cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons on sales to licensees within the state and on sales to licensees within the state of bottled and canned beer, including strong beer, shall pay a tax computed in gallons at the rate of one dollar and thirty cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons.
(b) Any brewery or beer distributor whose applicable tax payment is not postmarked by the twentieth day following the month of sale will be assessed a penalty at the rate of two percent per month or fraction thereof. Beer and strong beer shall be sold by breweries and distributors in sealed barrels or packages.
(c) The moneys collected under this subsection shall be distributed as follows: (i) Three-tenths of a percent shall be distributed to border areas under RCW 66.08.195; and (ii) of the remaining moneys: (A) Twenty percent shall be distributed to counties in the same manner as under RCW 66.08.200; and (B) eighty percent shall be distributed to incorporated cities and towns in the same manner as under RCW 66.08.210.
(d) Any licensed retailer authorized to purchase beer from a certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement or a brewery or microbrewery shall make monthly reports to the *liquor control board on beer purchased during the preceding calendar month in the manner and upon such forms as may be prescribed by the board.
(2) An additional tax is imposed on all beer and strong beer subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to two dollars per barrel of thirty-one gallons. All revenues collected during any month from this additional tax shall be deposited in the state general fund by the twenty-fifth day of the following month.
(3)(a) An additional tax is imposed on all beer and strong beer subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to ninety-six cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons through June 30, 1995, two dollars and thirty-nine cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons for the period July 1, 1995, through June 30, 1997, and four dollars and seventy-eight cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons thereafter.
(b) The additional tax imposed under this subsection does not apply to the sale of the first sixty thousand barrels of beer each year by breweries that are entitled to a reduced rate of tax under 26 U.S.C. Sec. 5051, as existing on July 1, 1993, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the board by rule consistent with the purposes of this exemption.
(c) All revenues collected from the additional tax imposed under this subsection (3) shall be deposited in the state general fund.
(4) An additional tax is imposed on all beer and strong beer that is subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section that is in the first sixty thousand barrels of beer and strong beer by breweries that are entitled to a reduced rate of tax under 26 U.S.C. Sec. 5051, as existing on July 1, 1993, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the board by rule consistent with the purposes of the exemption under subsection (3)(b) of this section. The additional tax is equal to one dollar and forty-eight and two-tenths cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons. By the twenty-fifth day of the following month, three percent of the revenues collected from this additional tax shall be distributed to border areas under RCW 66.08.195 and the remaining moneys shall be transferred to the state general fund.
(5)(a) From June 1, 2010, through June 30, 2013, an additional tax is imposed on all beer and strong beer subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to fifteen dollars and fifty cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons.
(b) The additional tax imposed under this subsection does not apply to the sale of the first sixty thousand barrels of beer each year by breweries that are entitled to a reduced rate of tax under 26 U.S.C. Sec. 5051 of the federal internal revenue code, as existing on July 1, 1993, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the board by rule consistent with the purposes of this exemption.
(c) All revenues collected from the additional tax imposed under this subsection shall be deposited in the state general fund.
(6) The board may make refunds for all taxes paid on beer and strong beer exported from the state for use outside the state.
(7) The board may require filing with the board of a bond to be approved by it, in such amount as the board may fix, securing the payment of the tax. If any licensee fails to pay the tax when due, the board may forthwith suspend or cancel his or her license until all taxes are paid.
[ 2010 1st sp.s. c 23 s 1301; 2009 c 479 s 43; 2006 c 302 s 7; 2003 c 167 s 5; 1999 c 281 s 14. Prior: 1997 c 451 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 16; 1995 c 232 s 4; 1994 sp.s. c 7 s 902 (Referendum Bill No. 43, approved November 8, 1994); 1993 c 492 s 311; 1989 c 271 s 502; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 s 11; 1982 1st ex.s. c 35 s 24; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 16; 1965 ex.s. c 173 s 30; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 24; RRS s 7306-24. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 23: See note following RCW 82.04.4292.
Findings—Intent—2010 1st sp.s. c 23: See notes following RCW 82.04.220.
Effective date—2009 c 479: See note following RCW 2.56.030.
Effective date—2006 c 302: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1997 c 451: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 1997." [ 1997 c 451 s 5.]
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Contingent partial referendum—1994 sp.s. c 7 ss 901-909: See note following RCW 66.24.210.
Finding—Intent—Severability—1994 sp.s. c 7: See notes following RCW 43.70.540.
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.
Effective dates—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 66.28.200.
Severability—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.
Construction—Severability—Effective dates—1983 2nd ex.s. c 3: See notes following RCW 82.04.255.
Severability—Effective dates—1982 1st ex.s. c 35: See notes following RCW 82.08.020.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Severability—1965 ex.s. c 173: See note following RCW 82.98.030.
Giving away of liquor prohibited—Exceptions: RCW 66.28.040.
The board may refund the tax on wine imposed by RCW 66.24.210, and the tax on beer imposed by RCW 66.24.290, when such taxpaid products have been deemed to be unsalable and are destroyed within the state in accordance with procedures established by the board.
[ 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 11. ]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1975 1st ex.s. c 173: See notes following RCW 66.08.050.
(1)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, no person may canvass for, solicit, receive, or take orders for the purchase or sale of liquor, nor contact any licensees of the board in goodwill activities, unless the person is the representative of a licensee or certificate holder authorized by this title to sell liquor for resale in the state and has applied for and received a representative's license.
(b) (a) of this subsection does not apply to: (i) Drivers who deliver spirits, beer, or wine; or (ii) domestic wineries or their employees.
(2) Every representative's license issued under this title is subject to all conditions and restrictions imposed by this title or by the rules and regulations of the board; the board, for the purpose of maintaining an orderly market, may limit the number of representative's licenses issued for representation of specific classes of eligible employers.
(3) Every application for a representative's license must be approved by a holder of a certificate of approval, a licensed beer distributor, a licensed domestic brewer, a licensed beer importer, a licensed microbrewer, a licensed domestic winery, a licensed wine importer, a licensed wine distributor, or by a distiller, manufacturer, importer, or distributor of spirits, or of foreign-produced beer or wine, as required by the rules and regulations of the board.
(4) The fee for a representative's license is $50 per year.
[ 2025 c 343 s 22; 2012 c 2 s 111 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2011 c 119 s 301; 1997 c 321 s 17; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 36; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 74 s 1; 1971 ex.s. c 138 s 1; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 5; 1939 c 172 s 2; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23I) (adding new section 23-I to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23I. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective date—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 74: "The effective date of this 1976 amendatory act shall be July 1, 1976." [1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 74 s 4.]
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
There shall be a beer and/or wine restaurant license to sell beer, including strong beer, or wine, or both, at retail, for consumption on the premises. A patron of the licensee may remove from the premises, recorked or recapped in its original container, any portion of wine or sake that was purchased for consumption with a meal.
(1) The annual fee shall be $300 for the beer license, $300 for the wine license, or $600 for a combination beer and wine license.
(2)(a) The board may issue a caterer's endorsement to this license to allow the licensee to remove from the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, only those types of liquor that are authorized under the on-premises license privileges for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and, except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, place not currently licensed by the board. If the event is open to the public, it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375 is waived. Cost of the endorsement is $525.
(b) The holder of this license with a catering endorsement shall, if requested by the board, notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any catered event. Upon request, the licensee shall provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the society or organization that will be holding the function at which the endorsed license will be utilized.
(c) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on the premises of another not licensed by the board so long as there is a written agreement between the licensee and the other party to provide for ongoing catering services, the agreement contains no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and the agreement is filed with the board.
(d) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on other premises operated by the licensee so long as the other premises are owned or controlled by a leasehold interest by that licensee. A duplicate license may be issued for each additional premises. A license fee of $30 shall be required for such duplicate licenses.
(3) Licensees under this section that hold a caterer's endorsement are allowed to use this endorsement on a domestic winery premises or on the premises of a passenger vessel and may store liquor at such premises under conditions established by the board under the following conditions:
(a) Agreements between the domestic winery or the passenger vessel, as the case may be, and the retail licensee shall be in writing, contain no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and be filed with the board; and
(b) The domestic winery or passenger vessel, as the case may be, and the retail licensee shall be separately contracted and compensated by the persons sponsoring the event for their respective services.
(4) The holder of this license or its manager may furnish beer or wine to the licensee's employees free of charge as may be required for use in connection with instruction on beer and wine. The instruction may include the history, nature, values, and characteristics of beer or wine, the use of wine lists, and the methods of presenting, serving, storing, and handling beer or wine. The beer and/or wine licensee must use the beer or wine it obtains under its license for the sampling as part of the instruction. The instruction must be given on the premises of the beer and/or wine licensee.
(5) If the license is issued to a person who contracts with the Washington state ferry system to provide food and alcohol service on a designated ferry route, the license shall cover any vessel assigned to the designated route. A separate license is required for each designated ferry route.
(6) A domestic brewery or microbrewery that contracts with another establishment to prepare, cook, and serve food to patrons of the domestic brewery or microbrewery may be issued a license under this section as provided in RCW 66.24.240(4) and 66.24.244(5).
[ 2025 c 343 s 23; 2025 c 141 s 3; (2022 c 116 s 12 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 6; 2019 c 169 s 2; (2009 c 507 s 1 expired July 1, 2011); 2007 c 370 s 9. Prior: 2006 c 362 s 1; 2006 c 101 s 2; 2005 c 152 s 1; 2004 c 62 s 2; prior: 2003 c 345 s 1; 2003 c 167 s 6; 1998 c 126 s 4; 1997 c 321 s 18; 1995 c 232 s 6; 1991 c 42 s 1; 1987 c 458 s 11; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 37; 1977 ex.s. c 9 s 1; 1969 c 117 s 1; 1967 ex.s. c 75 s 2; 1941 c 220 s 1; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23M) (adding new section 23-M to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1941 s 7306-23M. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 141 s 3 and by 2025 c 343 s 23, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Expiration date—2009 c 507: "This act expires July 1, 2011." [ 2009 c 507 s 15.]
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Severability—1987 c 458: See note following RCW 48.21.160.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective date—1967 ex.s. c 75: See note following RCW 66.08.180.
(1) There is a beer and wine retailer's license to be designated as a tavern license to sell beer, including strong beer, or wine, or both, at retail, for consumption on the premises. Such licenses may be issued only to a person operating a tavern that may be frequented only by persons 21 years of age and older.
(2) The annual fee for the license is $300 for the beer license, $300 for the wine license, or $600 for a combination beer and wine license.
(3)(a) The board may issue a caterer's endorsement to this license to allow the licensee to remove from the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, only those types of liquor that are authorized under the on-premises license privileges for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and, except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, place not currently licensed by the board. If the event is open to the public, it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375 is waived. Cost of the endorsement is $525.
(b) The holder of this license with a catering endorsement must, if requested by the board, notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any catered event. Upon request, the licensee must provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the society or organization that will be holding the function at which the endorsed license will be utilized.
(c) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on the premises of another not licensed by the board so long as there is a written agreement between the licensee and the other party to provide for ongoing catering services, the agreement contains no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and the agreement is filed with the board.
(d) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on other premises operated by the licensee so long as the other premises are owned or controlled by a leasehold interest by that licensee. A duplicate license may be issued for each additional premises. A license fee of $30 is required for such duplicate licenses.
(4) Licensees under this section that hold a caterer's endorsement are allowed to use this endorsement on a domestic winery premises and may store liquor at such premises under conditions established by the board under the following conditions:
(a) Agreements between the domestic winery and the retail licensee must be in writing, contain no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and be filed with the board; and
(b) The domestic winery and the retail licensee may be separately contracted and compensated by the persons sponsoring the event for their respective services.
(5) The holder of this license or its manager may furnish beer or wine to the licensee's employees free of charge as may be required for use in connection with instruction on beer and wine. The instruction may include the history, nature, values, and characteristics of beer or wine, the use of wine lists, and the methods of presenting, serving, storing, and handling beer or wine. The tavern licensee must use the beer or wine it obtains under its license for the sampling as part of the instruction. The instruction must be given on the premises of the tavern licensee.
(6) Any person serving liquor at a catered event on behalf of a licensee with a caterer's endorsement under this section must be an employee of the licensee and must possess a class 12 alcohol server permit as required under RCW 66.20.310.
(7) The board may issue rules as necessary to implement the requirements of this section.
[ 2025 c 343 s 24; (2022 c 116 s 13 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 7; 2017 c 252 s 1; (2009 c 507 s 2 expired July 1, 2011); 2003 c 167 s 7; 1997 c 321 s 19; 1995 c 232 s 7; 1991 c 42 s 2; 1987 c 458 s 12; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 38; 1977 ex.s. c 9 s 2; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 15; 1967 ex.s. c 75 s 3; 1941 c 220 s 2; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23N) (adding new section 23-N to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1941 s 7306-23N. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Severability—1987 c 458: See note following RCW 48.21.160.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
Effective date—1967 ex.s. c 75: See note following RCW 66.08.180.
There shall be a retailer's license to be designated as a snack bar license to sell beer by the opened bottle or can at retail, wine by the glass at retail, or both, for consumption upon the premises only, such license to be issued to places where the sale of beer or wine is not the principal business conducted; fee $187.50 per year.
[ 2026 c 192 s 1; 2025 c 343 s 25; (2022 c 116 s 14 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 8; (2009 c 507 s 3 expired July 1, 2011); 1997 c 321 s 20; 1991 c 42 s 3; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 40; 1967 ex.s. c 75 s 5; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23P) (adding new section 23-P to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23P. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective date—1967 ex.s. c 75: See note following RCW 66.08.180.
There shall be a beer and wine retailer's license that may be combined only with the on-premises licenses described in either RCW 66.24.320 or 66.24.330. The combined license permits the sale of beer and wine for consumption off the premises.
(1) Beer and wine sold for consumption off the premises must be in original sealed packages of the manufacturer or bottler.
(2) Beer may be sold to a purchaser in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser and filled at the tap by the retailer at the time of sale.
(3) Licensees holding this type of license also may sell malt liquor in kegs or other containers that are capable of holding four gallons or more of liquid and are registered in accordance with RCW 66.28.200.
(4) The board may impose conditions upon the issuance of this license to best protect and preserve the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
(5) The annual fee for this license shall be $180.
[ 2025 c 343 s 26; (2009 c 507 s 4 expired July 1, 2011); 1997 c 321 s 21. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) There is a grocery store license to sell wine and/or beer, including without limitation strong beer at retail in original containers, not to be consumed upon the premises where sold.
(2) There is a wine retailer reseller endorsement of a grocery store license, to sell wine at retail in original containers to retailers licensed to sell wine for consumption on the premises, for resale at their licensed premises according to the terms of the license. For the purposes of this title, a grocery store license is a retail license, and a sale by a grocery store licensee with a reseller endorsement is a retail sale only if not for resale.
(3) Licensees obtaining a written endorsement from the board may also sell malt liquor in kegs or other containers capable of holding less than 5.5 gallons of liquid.
(4) The annual fee for the grocery store license is $550 for each store.
(5) The annual fee for the wine retailer reseller endorsement is $249 for each store.
(6)(a) Upon approval by the board, a grocery store licensee with revenues derived from beer and/or wine sales exceeding 50 percent of total revenues or that maintains an alcohol inventory of not less than $15,000 may also receive an endorsement to permit the sale of beer and cider, as defined in RCW 66.24.210(6), in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser, or provided by the licensee or manufacturer, and filled at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale by an employee of the licensee holding a class 12 alcohol server permit.
(b) Pursuant to RCW 74.08.580(1)(f), a person may not use an electronic benefit transfer card for the purchase of any product authorized for sale under this section.
(c) The board may, by rule, establish fees to be paid by licensees receiving the endorsement authorized under this subsection (6), as necessary to cover the costs of implementing and enforcing the provisions of this subsection (6).
(7) The board must issue a restricted grocery store license authorizing the licensee to sell beer and only table wine, if the board finds upon issuance or renewal of the license that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be against the public interest. In determining the public interest, the board must consider at least the following factors:
(a) The likelihood that the applicant will sell strong beer or fortified wine to persons who are intoxicated;
(b) Law enforcement problems in the vicinity of the applicant's establishment that may arise from persons purchasing strong beer or fortified wine at the establishment; and
(c) Whether the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be detrimental to or inconsistent with a government-operated or funded alcohol treatment or detoxification program in the area.
If the board receives no evidence or objection that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be against the public interest, it must issue or renew the license without restriction, as applicable. The burden of establishing that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine by the licensee would be against the public interest is on those persons objecting.
(8) Licensees holding a grocery store license must maintain a minimum $3,000 inventory of food products for human consumption, not including pop, beer, strong beer, or wine.
(9) A grocery store licensee with a wine retailer reseller endorsement may accept delivery of wine at its licensed premises or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, and from which it may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted by this title, to other licensed premises, to other registered facilities, or to lawful purchasers outside the state. Facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of grocery store licensees.
(10) Upon approval by the board, the grocery store licensee may also receive an endorsement to permit the international export of beer, strong beer, and wine.
(a) Any beer, strong beer, or wine sold under this endorsement must have been purchased from a licensed beer or wine distributor licensed to do business within the state of Washington.
(b) Any beer, strong beer, and wine sold under this endorsement must be intended for consumption outside the state of Washington and the United States and appropriate records must be maintained by the licensee.
(c) Any beer, strong beer, or wine sold under this endorsement must be sold at a price no less than the acquisition price paid by the holder of the license.
(d) The annual cost of this endorsement is $750 and is in addition to the license fees paid by the licensee for a grocery store license.
(11) A grocery store licensee holding a snack bar license under RCW 66.24.350 may receive an endorsement to allow the sale of confections containing more than one percent but not more than 10 percent alcohol by weight to persons 21 years of age or older.
(12) The board may adopt rules to implement this section.
(13) Nothing in this section limits the authority of the board to regulate the sale of beer or cider or container sizes under rules adopted pursuant to RCW 66.08.030.
(14) Any endorsement issued pursuant to this section or RCW 66.24.363 may be issued to a qualified combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee in accordance with RCW 66.24.035(10).
(15)(a) A grocery store licensee that also holds a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630 may, upon board approval and pursuant to board rules, transition to a combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035.
(b) An applicant that would qualify for a grocery store license under this section and a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630 may apply for a single license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035 instead of applying for a grocery store license under this section in addition to a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630.
[ 2025 c 343 s 27; 2025 c 95 s 3; 2017 c 96 s 2; 2015 c 192 s 1; 2012 c 2 s 104 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2011 c 119 s 203; (2009 c 507 s 5 expired July 1, 2011); 2007 c 226 s 2; 2003 c 167 s 8; 1997 c 321 s 22; 1993 c 21 s 1; 1991 c 42 s 4; 1987 c 46 s 1; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 41; 1967 ex.s. c 75 s 6; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23Q) (adding new section 23-Q to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23Q. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 95 s 3 and by 2025 c 343 s 27, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Application to certain retailers—2003 c 167 ss 8 and 9: "Sections 8 and 9 of this act apply to retailers who hold a restricted grocery store license or restricted beer and/or wine specialty shop license on or after July 1, 2003." [ 2003 c 167 s 12.]
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Effective date—1967 ex.s. c 75: See note following RCW 66.08.180.
Employees under eighteen allowed to handle beer or wine: RCW 66.44.340.
(1) A grocery store licensed under RCW 66.24.360 may apply for an endorsement to offer beer and wine tasting under this section.
(2) To be issued an endorsement, a licensee must meet the following criteria:
(a) The licensee operates a fully enclosed retail area encompassing at least 10,000 square feet of fully enclosed retail space within a single structure, including storerooms and other interior auxiliary areas but excluding covered or fenced exterior areas, whether or not attached to the structure, except that the board may issue an endorsement to a licensee with a retail area encompassing less than 10,000 square feet if the board determines that no licensee in the community the licensee serves meets the square footage requirement and the licensee meets operational requirements established by the board by rule; and
(b) The licensee has not had more than one public safety violation within the past two years.
(3) A tasting must be conducted under the following conditions:
(a) Each sample must be two ounces or less, up to a total of four ounces, per customer during any one visit to the premises;
(b) No more than one sample of the same product offering of beer or wine may be provided to a customer during any one visit to the premises;
(c) The licensee must have food available for the tasting participants;
(d) Customers must remain in the service area while consuming samples; and
(e) The service area and facilities must be located within the licensee's fully enclosed retail area and must be of a size and design such that the licensee can observe and control persons in the area to ensure that persons under 21 years of age and apparently intoxicated persons cannot possess or consume alcohol.
(4) Employees of licensees whose duties include serving during tasting activities under this section must hold a class 12 alcohol server permit.
(5) Tasting activities under this section are subject to RCW 66.28.305 and 66.28.040 and the cost of sampling may not be borne, directly or indirectly, by any liquor manufacturer, importer, or distributor.
(6) A licensee may advertise a tasting event only within the store, on a store website, in store newsletters and flyers, and via email and mail to customers who have requested notice of events. Advertising under this subsection may not be targeted to or appeal principally to youth.
(7)(a) If a licensee is found to have committed a public safety violation in conjunction with tasting activities, the board may suspend the licensee's tasting endorsement and not reissue the endorsement for up to two years from the date of the violation. If mitigating circumstances exist, the board may offer a monetary penalty in lieu of suspension during a settlement conference.
(b) The board may revoke an endorsement granted to a licensee that is located within the boundaries of an alcohol impact area recognized by resolution of the board if the board finds that the tasting activities by the licensee are having an adverse effect on the reduction of chronic public inebriation in the area.
(c) RCW 66.08.150 applies to the suspension or revocation of an endorsement.
(8) The board may establish additional requirements under this section to assure that persons under 21 years of age and apparently intoxicated persons cannot possess or consume alcohol.
(9) The annual fee for the endorsement is $300. The board shall review the fee annually and may increase the fee by rule to a level sufficient to defray the cost of administration and enforcement of the endorsement, except that the board may not increase the fee by more than ten percent annually.
(10) The board must adopt rules to implement this section.
(11) An endorsement issued pursuant to this section may be issued to a qualified combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee in accordance with RCW 66.24.035.
[ 2025 c 343 s 28; 2017 c 96 s 5; 2013 c 52 s 1; 2010 c 141 s 1. ]
(1) There shall be a beer and/or wine retailer's license to be designated as a beer and/or wine specialty shop license to sell beer, strong beer, and/or wine at retail in bottles, cans, and original containers, not to be consumed upon the premises where sold, at any store other than the state liquor stores. Licensees obtaining a written endorsement from the board may also sell malt liquor in kegs or other containers capable of holding four gallons or more of liquid. The annual fee for the beer and/or wine specialty shop license is $150 for each store. The sale of any container holding four gallons or more must comply with RCW 66.28.200 and 66.28.220.
(2) Licensees under this section may provide, free or for a charge, single-serving samples of two ounces or less to customers for the purpose of sales promotion. Sampling activities of licensees under this section are subject to RCW 66.28.305 and 66.28.040 and the cost of sampling under this section may not be borne, directly or indirectly, by any manufacturer, importer, or distributor of liquor.
(3) Upon approval by the board, the beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee that exceeds 50 percent beer and/or wine sales may also receive an endorsement to permit the sale of beer to a purchaser in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser, or provided by the licensee or manufacturer, and fill at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale. If the beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee does not exceed 50 percent beer and/or wine sales, the board may waive the 50 percent beer and/or wine sale criteria if the beer and/or wine specialty shop maintains alcohol inventory that exceeds $15,000.
(4) The board shall issue a restricted beer and/or wine specialty shop license, authorizing the licensee to sell beer and only table wine, if the board finds upon issuance or renewal of the license that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be against the public interest. In determining the public interest, the board shall consider at least the following factors:
(a) The likelihood that the applicant will sell strong beer or fortified wine to persons who are intoxicated;
(b) Law enforcement problems in the vicinity of the applicant's establishment that may arise from persons purchasing strong beer or fortified wine at the establishment; and
(c) Whether the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be detrimental to or inconsistent with a government-operated or funded alcohol treatment or detoxification program in the area.
If the board receives no evidence or objection that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be against the public interest, it shall issue or renew the license without restriction, as applicable. The burden of establishing that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine by the licensee would be against the public interest is on those persons objecting.
(5) Licensees holding a beer and/or wine specialty shop license must maintain a minimum $3,000 wholesale inventory of beer, strong beer, and/or wine.
(6) The board may adopt rules to implement this section.
(7) Any endorsement issued pursuant to this section may be issued to a qualified combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee in accordance with RCW 66.24.035.
(8)(a) A beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee that also holds a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630 may, upon board approval and pursuant to board rules, transition to a combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035.
(b) An applicant that would qualify for a beer and/or wine specialty shop license under this section and a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630 may apply for a single license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035 instead of applying for a beer and/or wine specialty shop license under this section in addition to a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630.
[ 2025 c 343 s 29; 2017 c 96 s 3. Prior: 2011 c 195 s 4; 2011 c 119 s 204; (2009 c 507 s 6 expired July 1, 2011); 2009 c 373 s 6; 2003 c 167 s 9; 1997 c 321 s 23. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Application to certain retailers—2003 c 167 ss 8 and 9: See note following RCW 66.24.360.
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
"Society or organization" as used in RCW 66.24.380 means a not-for-profit group organized and operated (1) solely for charitable, religious, social, political, educational, civic, fraternal, athletic, or benevolent purposes, or (2) as a local wine industry association registered under section 501(c)(6) of the internal revenue code as it exists on July 22, 2007. No portion of the profits from events sponsored by a not-for-profit group may be paid directly or indirectly to members, officers, directors, or trustees except for services performed for the organization. Any compensation paid to its officers and executives must be only for actual services and at levels comparable to the compensation for like positions within the state. A society or organization which is registered with the secretary of state or the federal internal revenue service as a nonprofit organization shall submit such registration, upon request, as proof that it is a not-for-profit group.
[ 2007 c 370 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 61; 1981 c 287 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 c 287: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1981." [ 1981 c 287 s 3.]
There is a retailer's license to be designated as a special occasion license to be issued to a not-for-profit society or organization to sell spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified event, such as at picnics or other special occasions, at a specified date and place; fee $90 per day except the board may establish an additional daily fee for each day of operation at an event conducted under RCW 66.24.800 (2) or (4).
(1) The not-for-profit society or organization is limited to sales of no more than 12 calendar days per year, except that this limitation is waived for participation in any event conducted under RCW 66.24.800 (2) or (4) which may not count toward a not-for-profit society or organization's 12 calendar days of sales. For the purposes of this subsection, special occasion licensees that are "agricultural area fairs" or "agricultural county, district, and area fairs," as defined by RCW 15.76.120, that receive a special occasion license may, once per calendar year, count as one event fairs that last multiple days, so long as alcohol sales are at set dates, times, and locations, and the board receives prior notification of the dates, times, and locations. The special occasion license applicant will pay the $90 per day for this event.
(2) The licensee may sell spirits, beer, and/or wine in original, unopened containers for off-premises consumption if permission is obtained from the board prior to the event.
(3) In addition to offering the sale of wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption, the licensee may sell wine in original, unopened containers for on-premises consumption if permission is obtained from the board prior to the event. The authorization in this subsection (3) is not available at events conducted under RCW 66.24.800 (2) or (4).
(4) Sale, service, and consumption of spirits, beer, and wine is to be confined to specified premises or designated areas only, except as authorized in RCW 66.24.800 (2) and (4).
(5) Liquor sold under this special occasion license must be purchased from a licensee of the board.
(6) Any violation of this section is a class 1 civil infraction having a maximum penalty of $250 as provided for in chapter 7.80 RCW. At the board's discretion, repeat violations at an event authorized under RCW 66.24.800 (2) or (4) within a two-year period can be cause for denial of a license under this section or participation in future events.
[ 2025 c 361 s 3; 2025 c 343 s 30; 2016 c 235 s 2; 2012 c 2 s 112 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2005 c 151 s 10; 2004 c 133 s 2; 1997 c 321 s 24; 1988 c 200 s 2; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 43; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 17; 1969 ex.s. c 178 s 5; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23S) (adding new section 23-S to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23S. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 343 s 30 and by 2025 c 361 s 3, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Finding—Intent—Expiration date—2025 c 361: See notes following RCW 66.24.800.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
"Society or organization" defined for certain purposes: RCW 66.24.375.
PDFRCW 66.24.380
Special occasion license—Fee—Penalty. (Effective December 31, 2027.)
There is a retailer's license to be designated as a special occasion license to be issued to a not-for-profit society or organization to sell spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified event, such as at picnics or other special occasions, at a specified date and place; fee $90 per day.
(1) The not-for-profit society or organization is limited to sales of no more than 12 calendar days per year. For the purposes of this subsection, special occasion licensees that are "agricultural area fairs" or "agricultural county, district, and area fairs," as defined by RCW 15.76.120, that receive a special occasion license may, once per calendar year, count as one event fairs that last multiple days, so long as alcohol sales are at set dates, times, and locations, and the board receives prior notification of the dates, times, and locations. The special occasion license applicant will pay the $90 per day for this event.
(2) The licensee may sell spirits, beer, and/or wine in original, unopened containers for off-premises consumption if permission is obtained from the board prior to the event.
(3) In addition to offering the sale of wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption, the licensee may sell wine in original, unopened containers for on-premises consumption if permission is obtained from the board prior to the event.
(4) Sale, service, and consumption of spirits, beer, and wine is to be confined to specified premises or designated areas only.
(5) Liquor sold under this special occasion license must be purchased from a licensee of the board.
(6) Any violation of this section is a class 1 civil infraction having a maximum penalty of $250 as provided for in chapter 7.80 RCW.
[ 2025 c 343 s 30; 2016 c 235 s 2; 2012 c 2 s 112 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2005 c 151 s 10; 2004 c 133 s 2; 1997 c 321 s 24; 1988 c 200 s 2; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 43; 1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 17; 1969 ex.s. c 178 s 5; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23S) (adding new section 23-S to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23S.]
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Severability—Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 209: See notes following RCW 66.20.160.
"Society or organization" defined for certain purposes: RCW 66.24.375.
(1)(a) There shall be a license that may be issued to corporations, associations, or persons operating as federally licensed commercial common passenger carriers engaged in interstate commerce, in or over territorial limits of the state of Washington on passenger trains, vessels, or airplanes. Such license shall permit the sale of spirituous liquor, wine, and beer at retail for passenger consumption within the state upon one such train passenger car, vessel, or airplane, while in or over the territorial limits of the state. Such license shall include the privilege of transporting into and storing within the state such liquor for subsequent retail sale to passengers in passenger train cars, vessels or airplanes. The fees for such master license shall be $1,125 per annum (class CCI-1). Upon payment of an additional sum of $7.50 per annum per car, or vessel, or airplane, the privileges authorized by such license classes shall extend to additional cars, or vessels, or airplanes operated by the same licensee within the state, and a duplicate license for each additional car, or vessel, or airplane shall be issued. Such licensee may make such sales and/or service upon cars, or vessels, or airplanes in emergency for not more than five consecutive days without such license. Such license shall be valid only while such cars, or vessels, or airplanes are actively operated as common carriers for hire in interstate commerce and not while they are out of such common carrier service.
(b) Alcoholic beverages sold and/or served for consumption by such interstate common carriers while within or over the territorial limits of this state shall be subject to such board markup and state liquor taxes in an amount to approximate the revenue that would have been realized from such markup and taxes had the alcoholic beverages been purchased in Washington. However, the board's markup shall be applied on spirituous liquor only. Such common carriers shall report such sales and/or service and pay such markup and taxes in accordance with procedures prescribed by the board.
(2) Alcoholic beverages sold and delivered in this state to interstate common carriers for use under the provisions of this section shall be considered exported from the state, subject to the conditions provided in subsection (1)(b) of this section. Interstate common carriers licensed under this section may purchase alcoholic beverages outside the territorial limits of the state of Washington and import such alcoholic beverages into the state of Washington for sales and service aboard passenger trains, vessels, or airplanes. The storage facilities for liquor within the state by common carriers licensed under this section shall be subject to written approval by the board.
(3) Interstate common carriers licensed under this section may provide complimentary alcoholic beverages to passengers aboard passenger trains, vessels, or airplanes.
[ 2025 c 343 s 31; 2020 c 200 s 2; (2009 c 507 s 7 expired July 1, 2011); 1997 c 321 s 25; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 44; 1975 1st ex.s. c 245 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) There shall be a retailer's license, to be known and designated as a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, to sell spirituous liquor by the individual glass, beer, and wine, at retail, for consumption on the premises, including mixed drinks and cocktails compounded or mixed on the premises only. A club licensed under chapter 70.62 RCW with overnight sleeping accommodations, that is licensed under this section may sell liquor by the bottle to registered guests of the club for consumption in guest rooms, hospitality rooms, or at banquets in the club. A patron of a bona fide restaurant or club licensed under this section may remove from the premises recorked or recapped in its original container any portion of wine or sake which was purchased for consumption with a meal, and registered guests who have purchased liquor from the club by the bottle may remove from the premises any unused portion of such liquor in its original container. Such license may be issued only to bona fide restaurants and clubs, and to dining, club and buffet cars on passenger trains, and to dining places on passenger boats and airplanes, and to dining places at civic centers with facilities for sports, entertainment, and conventions, and to such other establishments operated and maintained primarily for the benefit of tourists, vacationers and travelers as the board shall determine are qualified to have, and in the discretion of the board should have, a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license under the provisions and limitations of this title.
(2) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to sell bottled wine for off-premises consumption. Spirits and beer may not be sold for off-premises consumption under this section except as provided in subsection (4) of this section. The annual fee for the endorsement under this subsection is $180.
(3) The holder of a spirits, beer, and wine license or its manager may furnish beer, wine, or spirituous liquor to the licensee's employees free of charge as may be required for use in connection with instruction on beer, wine, or spirituous liquor. The instruction may include the history, nature, values, and characteristics of beer, wine, or spirituous liquor, the use of wine lists, and the methods of presenting, serving, storing, and handling beer, wine, and spirituous liquor. The spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensee must use the beer, wine, or spirituous liquor it obtains under its license for the sampling as part of the instruction. The instruction must be given on the premises of the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensee.
(4) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to sell for off-premises consumption malt liquor in kegs or other containers that are capable of holding four gallons or more of liquid and are registered in accordance with RCW 66.28.200. Beer may also be sold under the endorsement to a purchaser in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap by the retailer at the time of sale. The annual fee for the endorsement under this subsection is $180.
(5)(a) The board shall create a soju endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to serve soju for on-premises consumption by the bottle to tables of two or more patrons 21 years of age or older. Cost of the endorsement is $75.
(b) The holder of a soju endorsement may serve soju in bottles that are 375 milliliters or less. Empty bottles of soju must remain on the patron's table until the patron has left the premises of the licensee.
(c) The patron of a holder of a soju endorsement may remove from the premises recapped in its original container any unused portion of soju that was purchased for consumption with a meal.
(d) The board must develop additional responsible sale and service of soju training curriculum related to the provisions of the soju endorsement under this subsection (5) that includes but is not limited to certification procedures and enforcement policies. This information must be provided in both Korean and English languages to licensees holding the soju endorsement. Soju endorsement holders must ensure servers providing soju to patrons are trained in the soju curriculum developed under this subsection (5).
(6) A domestic brewery or microbrewery that contracts with one or more mobile food units, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or independently operated food service providers or establishments may be issued a license under this section as provided in RCW 66.24.240(4) and 66.24.244(5).
[ 2025 c 343 s 32; 2025 c 141 s 4. Prior: 2019 c 169 s 3; 2019 c 61 s 2; 2011 c 119 s 401; (2009 c 507 s 8 expired July 1, 2011); 2008 c 41 s 10; prior: 2007 c 370 s 13; 2007 c 53 s 1; 2005 c 152 s 2; 2001 c 199 s 4; 1998 c 126 s 5; 1997 c 321 s 26; 1987 c 196 s 1; 1986 c 208 s 1; 1981 c 94 s 2; 1977 ex.s. c 9 s 4; 1971 ex.s. c 208 s 1; 1949 c 5 s 1 (adding new section 23-S-1 to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23S-1. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 141 s 4 and by 2025 c 343 s 32, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—2008 c 41 ss 3, 10, and 11: See note following RCW 66.20.310.
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1986 c 208: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect on May 1, 1986." [ 1986 c 208 s 2.]
(1) "Spirituous liquor," as used in RCW 66.24.400 through 66.24.450, inclusive, means "liquor" as defined in RCW 66.04.010, except "wine" and "beer" sold as such.
(2) "Restaurant" as used in RCW 66.24.400 through 66.24.450, inclusive, means an establishment provided with special space and accommodations where, in consideration of payment, food, without lodgings, is habitually furnished to the public, not including drug stores and soda fountains: PROVIDED, That such establishments shall be approved by the board and that the board shall be satisfied that such establishment is maintained in a substantial manner as a place for preparing, cooking, and serving of complete meals or is a domestic brewery or a microbrewery that subcontracts with one or more individuals or entities to satisfy food service requirements, that is maintained in a substantial manner as a place for preparing, cooking, and serving of complete meals, to prepare, cook, and serve complete meals on behalf of the domestic brewery or microbrewery under the domestic brewery [brewery's] or microbrewery's spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license. Requirements for complete meals shall be determined by the board in rules adopted pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW.
(3) "Hotel," "clubs," "wine[,]" and "beer" are used in RCW 66.24.400 through 66.24.450, inclusive, with the meaning given in chapter 66.04 RCW.
[ 2025 c 141 s 5; 2011 c 195 s 2; 2007 c 370 s 18; 1983 c 3 s 164; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 17; 1969 ex.s. c 112 s 1; 1957 c 263 s 2. Prior: 1949 c 5 s 2, part (adding new section 23-S-2 to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23S-2, part. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) The spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license shall be issued in accordance with the following schedule of annual fees:
(a) The annual fee for a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license shall be graduated as follows:
| Less than 50% dedicated dining area | $2,700 | | --- | --- | | 50% or more dedicated dining area | $2,200 | | Service bar only | $1,400 |
(b) The annual fee for the license when issued to any other spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensee outside of incorporated cities and towns shall be prorated according to the calendar quarters, or portion thereof, during which the licensee is open for business, except in case of suspension or revocation of the license.
(c) Where the license shall be issued to any corporation, association or person operating a bona fide restaurant in an airport terminal facility providing service to transient passengers with more than one place where liquor is to be dispensed and sold, such license shall be issued upon the payment of the annual fee, which shall be a master license and shall permit such sale within and from one such place. Such license may be extended to additional places on the premises at the discretion of the board and a duplicate license may be issued for each such additional place. The holder of a master license for a restaurant in an airport terminal facility must maintain in a substantial manner at least one place on the premises for preparing, cooking, and serving of complete meals, and such food service shall be available on request in other licensed places on the premises. An additional license fee of 25 percent of the annual master license fee shall be required for such duplicate licenses.
(d) Where the license shall be issued to any corporation, association, or person operating dining places at a publicly or privately owned civic or convention center with facilities for sports, entertainment, or conventions, or a combination thereof, with more than one place where liquor is to be dispensed and sold, such license shall be issued upon the payment of the annual fee, which shall be a master license and shall permit such sale within and from one such place. Such license may be extended to additional places on the premises at the discretion of the board and a duplicate license may be issued for each such additional place. The holder of a master license for a dining place at such a publicly or privately owned civic or convention center must maintain in a substantial manner at least one place on the premises for preparing, cooking, and serving of complete meals, and food service shall be available on request in other licensed places on the premises. An additional license fee of $15 shall be required for such duplicate licenses.
(2) The board, so far as in its judgment is reasonably possible, shall confine spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses to the business districts of cities and towns and other communities, and not grant such licenses in residential districts, nor within the immediate vicinity of schools, without being limited in the administration of this subsection to any specific distance requirements.
(3) The board shall have discretion to issue spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses outside of cities and towns in the state of Washington. The purpose of this subsection is to enable the board, in its discretion, to license in areas outside of cities and towns and other communities, establishments which are operated and maintained primarily for the benefit of tourists, vacationers and travelers, and also golf and country clubs, and common carriers operating dining, club and buffet cars, or boats.
(4) The combined total number of spirits, beer, and wine nightclub licenses, and spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses issued in the state of Washington by the board, not including spirits, beer, and wine private club licenses, shall not in the aggregate at any time exceed one license for each 1,200 of population in the state, determined according to the yearly population determination developed by the office of financial management pursuant to RCW 43.62.030.
(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (4) of this section, the board shall refuse a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to any applicant if in the opinion of the board the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses already granted for the particular locality are adequate for the reasonable needs of the community.
(6)(a) The board may issue a caterer's endorsement to this license to allow the licensee to remove the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, for use as liquor for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and, except as provided in subsection (7) of this section, place not currently licensed by the board. If the event is open to the public, it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375 is waived. Cost of the endorsement is $525.
(b) The holder of this license with a catering endorsement shall, if requested by the board, notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any catered event. Upon request, the licensee shall provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the society or organization that will be holding the function at which the endorsed license will be utilized.
(c) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on the premises of another not licensed by the board so long as there is a written agreement between the licensee and the other party to provide for ongoing catering services, the agreement contains no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and the agreement is filed with the board.
(d) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on other premises operated by the licensee so long as the other premises are owned or controlled by a leasehold interest by that licensee. A duplicate license may be issued for each additional premises. A license fee of $30 shall be required for such duplicate licenses.
(7) Licensees under this section that hold a caterer's endorsement are allowed to use this endorsement on a domestic winery premises or on the premises of a passenger vessel and may store liquor at such premises under conditions established by the board under the following conditions:
(a) Agreements between the domestic winery or passenger vessel, as the case may be, and the retail licensee shall be in writing, contain no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and be filed with the board; and
(b) The domestic winery or passenger vessel, as the case may be, and the retail licensee shall be separately contracted and compensated by the persons sponsoring the event for their respective services.
[ 2025 c 343 s 33; (2022 c 116 s 2 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 9; (2009 c 507 s 9 expired July 1, 2011); 2009 c 271 s 7. Prior: 2007 c 370 s 19; 2007 c 370 s 8; prior: 2006 c 101 s 3; 2006 c 85 s 1; 2004 c 62 s 3; 2003 c 345 s 2; 1998 c 126 s 6; 1997 c 321 s 27; 1996 c 218 s 4; 1995 c 55 s 1; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 45; 1979 c 87 s 1; 1977 ex.s. c 219 s 4; 1975 1st ex.s. c 245 s 1; 1971 ex.s. c 208 s 2; 1970 ex.s. c 13 s 2; prior: 1969 ex.s. c 178 s 6; 1969 ex.s. c 136 s 1; 1965 ex.s. c 143 s 3; 1949 c 5 s 3 (adding new section 23-S-3 to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23S-3. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: "Sections 2 through 20 of this act expire December 31, 2023." [ 2022 c 116 s 21.]
Effective date—2022 c 116: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect April 1, 2022." [ 2022 c 116 s 22.]
Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: "The legislature finds that operations of businesses in the hospitality industry have been significantly disrupted since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these businesses, including restaurants, hotels, theaters, caterers, and nightclubs maintain state liquor licenses in order to offer their customers beer, wine, or spirits as products or amenities as authorized under the terms of their licenses. However, many licensees' businesses were completely or partially closed for much of 2020 and continue to be closed or substantially disrupted in 2021 and 2022. Recognizing many licensees' inability to fully operate and use their license, and the financial hardships faced by many licensees, the legislature intends to provide relief to the hospitality industry by reducing certain liquor license fees in 2022 and 2023." [ 2022 c 116 s 1.]
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) The board may, in its discretion, issue a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to a business which qualifies as a "restaurant" as that term is defined in RCW 66.24.410 in all respects except that the business does not serve the general public but, through membership qualification, selectively restricts admission to the business. For purposes of RCW 66.24.400 and 66.24.420, all licenses issued under this section shall be considered spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses and shall be subject to all requirements, fees, and qualifications in this title, or in rules adopted by the board, as are applicable to spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses generally except that no service to the general public may be required.
(2) No license shall be issued under this section to a business:
(a) Which shall not have been in continuous operation for at least one year immediately prior to the date of its application; or
(b) Which denies membership or admission to any person because of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, or the presence of any disability.
(3) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license issued under this section that allows up to 40 nonclub, member-sponsored events using club liquor. Visitors and guests may attend these events only by invitation of the sponsoring member or members. These events may not be open to the general public. The fee for the endorsement is an annual fee of $1,350. Upon the board's request, the holder of the endorsement must provide the board or the board's designee with the following information at least 72 hours before the event: The date, time, and location of the event; the name of the sponsor of the event; and a brief description of the purpose of the event.
(4) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to sell for off-premises consumption wine vinted and bottled in the state of Washington and carrying a label exclusive to the license holder selling the wine. Spirits and beer may not be sold for off-premises consumption under this section. The annual fee for the endorsement under this section is $180.
[ 2025 c 343 s 34; 2020 c 274 s 45. Prior: 2001 c 199 s 3; 2001 c 198 s 1; (2009 c 507 s 10 expired July 1, 2011); 1998 c 126 s 7; 1997 c 321 s 28; 1982 c 85 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) No club shall be entitled to a spirits, beer, and wine private club license:
(a) Unless such private club has been in continuous operation for at least one year immediately prior to the date of its application for such license;
(b) Unless the private club premises be constructed and equipped, conducted, managed, and operated to the satisfaction of the board and in accordance with this title and the regulations made thereunder;
(c) Unless the board shall have determined pursuant to any regulations made by it with respect to private clubs, that such private club is a bona fide private club; it being the intent of this section that license shall not be granted to a club which is, or has been, primarily formed or activated to obtain a license to sell liquor, but solely to a bona fide private club, where the sale of liquor is incidental to the main purposes of the spirits, beer, and wine private club, as defined in RCW 66.04.010(8).
(2) The annual fee for a spirits, beer, and wine private club license, whether inside or outside of an incorporated city or town, is $1,080 per year.
(3) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine private club license that allows nonclub, member-sponsored events using club liquor. Visitors and guests may attend these events only by invitation of the sponsoring member or members. These events may not be open to the general public. The fee for the endorsement shall be an annual fee of $1,350. Upon the board's request, the holder of the endorsement must provide the board or the board's designee with the following information at least 72 hours prior to the event: The date, time, and location of the event; the name of the sponsor of the event; and a brief description of the purpose of the event.
(4) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine private club license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine private club license to sell bottled wine for off-premises consumption. Spirits and beer may not be sold for off-premises consumption under this section. The annual fee for the endorsement under this section is $180.
[ 2025 c 343 s 35; 2011 c 119 s 402; (2009 c 507 s 11 expired July 1, 2011); 2009 c 373 s 2; 2001 c 199 s 1; 1999 c 281 s 5. Prior: 1998 c 126 s 9; 1998 c 114 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 30; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 18; 1949 c 5 s 6; 1937 c 217 s 1 (23T) (adding new section 23-T to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23T. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1998 c 114: "This act takes effect July 1, 1998." [ 1998 c 114 s 3.]
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) There shall be a beer and wine license to be issued to a private club for sale of beer, strong beer, and wine for on-premises consumption.
(2) Beer, strong beer, and wine sold by the licensee may be on tap or by open bottles or cans.
(3) The fee for the private club beer and wine license is $270 per year.
(4) The board may issue an endorsement to the private club beer and wine license that allows the holder of a private club beer and wine license to sell bottled wine for off-premises consumption. Spirits, strong beer, and beer may not be sold for off-premises consumption under this section. The annual fee for the endorsement under this section is $180.
[ 2025 c 343 s 36; (2009 c 507 s 12 expired July 1, 2011); 2009 c 373 s 3; 2003 c 167 s 10; 2001 c 199 s 2; 1997 c 321 s 31. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2009 c 507: See note following RCW 66.24.320.
Effective date—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.244.
Report to legislature—2003 c 167: See note following RCW 66.24.250.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Subject to approval by the board, holders of beer and/or wine restaurant, tavern, snack bar, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant, spirits, beer, and wine private club, or beer and wine private club licenses may extend their premises for the sale, service, and consumption of liquor authorized under their respective licenses to the concourse or lane areas in a bowling establishment where the concourse or lane areas are adjacent to the food preparation service facility.
[ 1998 c 126 s 10; 1997 c 321 s 32; 1994 c 201 s 2; 1974 ex.s. c 65 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
No public place or club, or agent, servant or employee thereof, shall keep or allow to be kept, either by itself, its agent, servant or employee, or any other person, any liquor in any place maintained or conducted by such public place or club, nor shall it permit the drinking of any liquor in any such place, unless the sale of liquor in said place is authorized by virtue of a valid and subsisting license issued by the Washington *state liquor control board, or the consumption of liquor in said place is authorized by a special banquet permit issued by said board. Every person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
"Public place," for purposes of this section only, shall mean in addition to the definition set forth in RCW 66.04.010, any place to which admission is charged or in which any pecuniary gain is realized by the owner or operator of such place in selling or vending food or soft drinks.
[ 2008 c 94 s 9; 1969 ex.s. c 250 s 2; 1953 c 141 s 1 (adding a new section to chapter 66.24 RCW). ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
(1) There shall be a license to be designated as a nonprofit arts organization license. This shall be a special license to be issued to any nonprofit arts organization which sponsors and presents productions or performances of an artistic or cultural nature in a specific theater or other appropriate designated indoor premises approved by the board. The license shall permit the licensee to sell liquor to patrons of productions or performances for consumption on the premises at these events. The fee for the license shall be $250 per annum.
(2) For the purposes of this section, the term "nonprofit arts organization" means an organization which is organized and operated for the purpose of providing artistic or cultural exhibitions, presentations, or performances or cultural or art education programs, as defined in subsection (3) of this section, for viewing or attendance by the general public. The organization must be a not-for-profit corporation under chapter 24.03A RCW and managed by a governing board of not less than eight individuals none of whom is a paid employee of the organization or by a corporation sole under chapter 24.12 RCW. In addition, the corporation must satisfy the following conditions:
(a) No part of its income may be paid directly or indirectly to its members, stockholders, officers, directors, or trustees except in the form of services rendered by the corporation in accordance with its purposes and bylaws;
(b) Salary or compensation paid to its officers and executives must be only for actual services rendered, and at levels comparable to the salary or compensation of like positions within the state;
(c) Assets of the corporation must be irrevocably dedicated to the activities for which the license is granted and, on the liquidation, dissolution, or abandonment by the corporation, may not inure directly or indirectly to the benefit of any member or individual except a nonprofit organization, association, or corporation;
(d) The corporation must be duly licensed or certified when licensing or certification is required by law or regulation;
(e) The proceeds derived from sales of liquor, except for reasonable operating costs, must be used in furtherance of the purposes of the organization;
(f) Services must be available regardless of race, color, national origin, or ancestry; and
(g) The board shall have access to its books in order to determine whether the corporation is entitled to a license.
(3) The term "artistic or cultural exhibitions, presentations, or performances or cultural or art education programs" includes and is limited to:
(a) An exhibition or presentation of works of art or objects of cultural or historical significance, such as those commonly displayed in art or history museums;
(b) A musical or dramatic performance or series of performances; or
(c) An educational seminar or program, or series of such programs, offered by the organization to the general public on an artistic, cultural, or historical subject.
[ 2025 c 343 s 37; 2023 c 470 s 1013; (2022 c 116 s 15 expired December 31, 2023). Prior: 2021 c 176 s 5234; 2021 c 6 s 10; 1997 c 321 s 33; 1981 c 142 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2023 c 470: See note following RCW 10.99.030.
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 176: See note following RCW 24.03A.005.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
There shall be a grower's license to sell wine or spirits made from grapes or other agricultural products owned at the time of vinification or distillation by the licensee in bulk to holders of domestic wineries', distillers', or manufacturers' licenses or for export. The wine or spirits shall be made upon the premises of a domestic winery or craft distillery licensee and is referred to in this section as grower's wine or grower's spirits. A grower's license authorizes the agricultural product grower to contract for the manufacturing of wine or spirits from the grower's own agricultural product, store wine or spirits in bulk made from agricultural products produced by the holder of this license, and to sell wine or spirits in bulk made from the grower's own agricultural products to a winery or distillery in the state of Washington or to export in bulk for sale out-of-state. The annual fee for a grower's license shall be $75. For the purpose of chapter 66.28 RCW, a grower licensee shall be deemed a manufacturer.
[ 2025 c 343 s 38; 2010 c 290 s 4; 1986 c 214 s 1. ]
(1) There shall be a license to be designated as a class S license to qualified duty free exporters authorizing such exporters to sell beer and wine to vessels for consumption outside the state of Washington.
(2) To qualify for a license under subsection (1) of this section, the exporter shall have:
(a) An importer's basic permit issued by the United States bureau of alcohol, tobacco, and firearms and a customs house license in conjunction with a common carriers bond;
(b) A customs bonded warehouse, or be able to operate from a foreign trade zone; and
(c) A notarized signed statement from the purchaser stating that the product is for consumption outside the state of Washington.
(3) The license for qualified duty free exporters shall authorize the duty free exporter to purchase from a brewery, winery, beer wholesaler, wine wholesaler, beer importer, or wine importer licensed by the state of Washington.
(4) Beer and/or wine sold and delivered in this state to duty free exporters for use under this section shall be considered exported from the state.
(5) The fee for this license shall be $150 per annum.
[ 2025 c 343 s 39; 1987 c 386 s 1. ]
(1) There is a retailer's license to be designated as a motel license. The motel license may be issued to a motel regardless of whether it holds any other class of license under this title. No license may be issued to a motel offering rooms to its guests on an hourly basis. The license authorizes the licensee to:
(a) Sell, at retail, in locked honor bars, spirits in individual bottles not to exceed 50 milliliters, beer in individual cans or bottles not to exceed 12 ounces, and wine in individual bottles not to exceed 187 milliliters, to registered guests of the motel for consumption in guest rooms.
(i) Each honor bar must also contain snack foods. No more than one-half of the guest rooms may have honor bars.
(ii) All spirits to be sold under the license must be purchased from a spirits retailer or a spirits distributor licensee of the board.
(iii) The licensee must require proof of age from the guest renting a guest room and requesting the use of an honor bar. The guest must also execute an affidavit verifying that no one under 21 years of age has access to the spirits, beer, and wine in the honor bar.
(b) Provide without additional charge, to overnight guests of the motel, spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified regular date, time, and place as may be fixed by the board. Self-service by attendees is prohibited. All spirits, beer, and wine service must be done by an alcohol server as defined in RCW 66.20.300 and comply with RCW 66.20.310.
(2) The annual fee for a motel license is $750.
(3) For the purposes of this section, "motel" means a transient accommodation licensed under chapter 70.62 RCW.
[ 2025 c 343 s 40; (2022 c 116 s 16 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 11; 2012 c 2 s 114 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 1999 c 129 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 34; 1993 c 511 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
There shall be a beer and wine retailer's license to be designated as a beer and wine gift delivery license to solicit, take orders for, sell, and deliver beer and/or wine in bottles and original packages to persons other than the person placing the order. A beer and wine gift delivery license may be issued only to a business solely engaged in the sale or sale and delivery of gifts at retail which holds no other class of license under this title or to a person in the business of selling flowers or floral arrangements at retail. No minimum beer and/or wine inventory requirement shall apply to holders of beer and wine gift delivery licenses. The fee for this license is $112.50 per year. Delivery of beer and/or wine under a beer and wine gift delivery license shall be made in accordance with all applicable provisions of this title and the rules of the board, and no beer and/or wine so delivered shall be opened on any premises licensed under this title. A beer and wine gift delivery license does not authorize door-to-door solicitation of gift wine delivery orders. Deliveries of beer and/or wine under a beer and wine gift delivery license shall be made only in conjunction with gifts or flowers.
[ 2025 c 343 s 41; 1997 c 321 s 35; 1989 c 149 s 1; 1986 c 40 s 1; 1982 c 85 s 10. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) There is a license for sports entertainment facilities to be designated as a sports entertainment facility license to sell beer, wine, and spirits at retail, for consumption upon the premises only, the license to be issued to the entity providing food and beverage service at a sports entertainment facility as defined in this section. The cost of the license is $3,750 per annum.
(2) For purposes of this section, a sports entertainment facility includes a publicly or privately owned arena, coliseum, stadium, or facility where sporting events are presented for a price of admission. The facility does not have to be exclusively used for sporting events.
(3) The board may impose reasonable requirements upon a licensee under this section, such as requirements for the availability of food and victuals including but not limited to hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, or other snack food. The board may also restrict the type of events at a sports entertainment facility at which beer, wine, and spirits may be served. When imposing conditions for a licensee, the board must consider the seating accommodations, eating facilities, and circulation patterns in such a facility, and other amenities available at a sports entertainment facility.
(4)(a) The board may issue a caterer's endorsement to the license under this section to allow the licensee to remove from the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, for use as liquor for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and place not currently licensed by the board. If the event is open to the public, it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375 is waived. Cost of the endorsement is $525.
(b) The holder of this license with catering endorsement shall, if requested by the board, notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any catered event. Upon request, the licensee shall provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the society or organization that will be holding the function at which the endorsed license will be utilized.
(5) The board may issue an endorsement to the beer, wine, and spirits sports entertainment facility license that allows the holder of a beer, wine, and spirits sports entertainment facility license to sell for off-premises consumption wine vinted and bottled in the state of Washington and carrying a label exclusive to the license holder selling the wine. Spirits and beer may not be sold for off-premises consumption under this section. The annual fee for the endorsement under this section is $180.
(6)(a) A licensee and an affiliated business may enter into arrangements with a manufacturer, importer, or distributor for brand advertising at the sports entertainment facility or promotion of events held at the sports entertainment facility, with a capacity of five thousand people or more. The financial arrangements providing for the brand advertising or promotion of events shall not be used as an inducement to purchase the products of the manufacturer, importer, or distributor entering into the arrangement nor shall it result in the exclusion of brands or products of other companies.
(b) The arrangements allowed under this subsection (6) are an exception to arrangements prohibited under RCW 66.28.305. The board shall monitor the impacts of these arrangements. The board may conduct audits of the licensee and the affiliated business to determine compliance with this subsection (6). Audits may include but are not limited to product selection at the facility; purchase patterns of the licensee; contracts with the liquor manufacturer, importer, or distributor; and the amount allocated or used for liquor advertising by the licensee, affiliated business, manufacturer, importer, or distributor under the arrangements.
(c) The board shall report to the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 30, 2008, and biennially thereafter, on the impacts of arrangements allowed between sports entertainment licensees and liquor manufacturers, importers, and distributors for brand advertising and promotion of events at the facility.
[ 2025 c 343 s 42; (2022 c 116 s 17 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 12; 2011 c 119 s 205; 2007 c 369 s 2; 2003 c 345 s 3; 2001 c 199 s 5; 1997 c 321 s 36; 1996 c 218 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
NOTES:
Reviser's note: RCW 66.24.580 was amended by 2025 c 343 s 43 without reference to its repeal by 2025 c 167 s 5. It has been decodified for publication purposes under RCW 1.12.025.
(1) There is a retailer's license to be designated as a hotel license. No license may be issued to a hotel offering rooms to its guests on an hourly basis. Food service provided for room service, banquets or conferences, or restaurant operation under this license must meet the requirements of rules adopted by the board.
(2) The hotel license authorizes the licensee to:
(a) Sell spirituous liquor, beer, and wine, by the individual glass, at retail, for consumption on the premises, including mixed drinks and cocktails compounded and mixed on the premises;
(b) Sell, at retail, from locked honor bars, in individual units, spirits not to exceed 50 milliliters, beer in individual units not to exceed 12 ounces, and wine in individual bottles not to exceed 385 milliliters, to registered guests of the hotel for consumption in guest rooms. The licensee must require proof of age from the guest renting a guest room and requesting the use of an honor bar. The guest must also execute an affidavit verifying that no one under 21 years of age will have access to the spirits, beer, and wine in the honor bar;
(c) Provide without additional charge, to overnight guests, spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified regular date, time, and place as may be fixed by the board. Self-service by attendees is prohibited;
(d) Sell beer, including strong beer, wine, or spirits, in the manufacturer's sealed container or by the individual drink to guests through room service, or through service to occupants of private residential units which are part of the buildings or complex of buildings that include the hotel;
(e) Sell beer, including strong beer, spirits, or wine, in the manufacturer's sealed container at retail sales locations within the hotel premises;
(f) Sell beer to a purchaser in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap in the restaurant area by the licensee at the time of sale;
(g) Sell for on or off-premises consumption, including through room service and service to occupants of private residential units managed by the hotel, wine carrying a label exclusive to the hotel license holder;
(h) Place in guest rooms at check-in, a complimentary bottle of liquor in a manufacturer-sealed container, and make a reference to this service in promotional material.
(3) If all or any facilities for alcoholic beverage service and the preparation, cooking, and serving of food are operated under contract or joint venture agreement, the operator may hold a license separate from the license held by the operator of the hotel. Food and beverage inventory used in separate licensed operations at the hotel may not be shared and must be separately owned and stored by the separate licensees.
(4) All spirits to be sold under this license must be purchased from a spirits retailer or spirits distributor licensee of the board.
(5) All on-premises alcoholic beverage service must be done by an alcohol server as defined in RCW 66.20.300 and must comply with RCW 66.20.310.
(6)(a) The hotel license allows the licensee to remove from the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, liquor for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and place not currently licensed by the board. If the event is open to the public, it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375 is waived.
(b) The holder of this license must, if requested by the board, notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any event. Upon request, the licensee must provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the society or organization that will be holding the function at which the endorsed license will be utilized.
(c) Licensees may cater events on a domestic winery, brewery, or distillery premises.
(7) The holder of this license or its manager may furnish spirits, beer, or wine to the licensee's employees who are 21 years of age or older free of charge as may be required for use in connection with instruction on spirits, beer, and wine. The instruction may include the history, nature, values, and characteristics of spirits, beer, or wine, the use of wine lists, and the methods of presenting, serving, storing, and handling spirits, beer, or wine. The licensee must use the liquor it obtains under its license for the sampling as part of the instruction. The instruction must be given on the premises of the licensee.
(8) Minors may be allowed in all areas of the hotel where liquor may be consumed; however, the consumption must be incidental to the primary use of the area. These areas include, but are not limited to, tennis courts, hotel lobbies, and swimming pool areas. If an area is not a mixed-use area, and is primarily used for alcohol service, the area must be designated and restricted to access by persons of lawful age to purchase liquor.
(9) The annual fee for this license is $2,500.
(10) As used in this section, "hotel," "spirits," "beer," and "wine" have the meanings defined in RCW 66.24.410 and 66.04.010.
[ 2025 c 343 s 44; (2022 c 116 s 3 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 14; 2012 c 2 s 115 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2011 c 119 s 403; 2008 c 41 s 11; 2007 c 370 s 11. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—2008 c 41 ss 3, 10, and 11: See note following RCW 66.20.310.
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
(1) There shall be a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license to sell spirituous liquor by the drink, beer, and wine at retail, for consumption on the licensed premises.
(2) The license may be issued only to a person whose business includes the sale and service of alcohol to the person's customers, has food sales and service incidental to the sale and service of alcohol, and has primary business hours between 9:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m.
(3) Minors may be allowed on the licensed premises but only in areas where alcohol is not served or consumed.
(4) The annual fee for this license is $2,500. The fee for the license shall be reviewed from time to time and set at such a level sufficient to defray the cost of licensing and enforcing this licensing program. The fee shall be fixed by rule adopted by the board in accordance with the provisions of the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
(5) Local governments may petition the board to request that further restrictions be imposed on a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license in the interest of public safety. Examples of further restrictions a local government may request are: No minors allowed on the entire premises, submitting a security plan, or signing a good neighbor agreement with the local government.
(6) The total number of spirits, beer, and wine nightclub licenses are subject to the requirements of RCW 66.24.420(4). However, the board shall refuse a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license to any applicant if the board determines that the spirits, beer, and wine nightclub licenses already granted for the particular locality are adequate for the reasonable needs of the community.
(7) The board may adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2025 c 343 s 45; (2022 c 116 s 4 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 15; 2009 c 271 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
There shall be a license to allow a VIP airport lounge operator to sell or otherwise provide spirits, wine, and beer solely for consumption on the premises of a VIP airport lounge. The license described in this section allows the VIP airport lounge operator to purchase spirits from the board, and to purchase beer and wine at retail outlets, or from the manufacturer or a distributor. No licensee may serve liquor from a bar where patrons may sit to be served, but may only serve liquor from a service bar, as approved by the board. The annual fee for this license shall be $2,500.
[ 2025 c 343 s 46; 2011 c 325 s 1. ]
(1) The holder of a spirits distributor license or spirits retail license issued under this title may commence sale of spirits upon issuance thereof, but in no event earlier than March 1, 2012, for distributors, or June 1, 2012, for retailers. The board must complete application processing by those dates of all complete applications for spirits licenses on file with the board on or before sixty days from December 8, 2011.
(2) The board must effect orderly closure of all state liquor stores no later than June 1, 2012, and must thereafter refrain from purchase, sale, or distribution of liquor, except for asset sales authorized by chapter 2, Laws of 2012.
(3) The board must devote sufficient resources to planning and preparation for sale of all assets of state liquor stores and distribution centers, and all other assets of the state over which the board has power of disposition, including without limitation goodwill and location value associated with state liquor stores, with the objective of depleting all inventory of liquor by May 31, 2012, and closing all other asset sales no later than June 1, 2013. The board, in furtherance of this subsection, may sell liquor to spirits licensees.
(4)(a) Disposition of any state liquor store or distribution center assets remaining after June 1, 2013, must be managed by the department of revenue.
(b) The board must obtain the maximum reasonable value for all asset sales made under this section.
(c) The board must sell by auction open to the public the right at each state-owned store location of a spirits retail licensee to operate a liquor store upon the premises. Such right must be freely alienable and subject to all state and local zoning and land use requirements applicable to the property. Acquisition of the operating rights must be a precondition to, but does not establish eligibility for, a spirits retail license at the location of a state store and does not confer any privilege conferred by a spirits retail license. Holding the rights does not require the holder of the right to operate a liquor-licensed business or apply for a liquor license.
(5) All sales proceeds under this section, net of direct sales expenses and other transition costs authorized by this section, must be deposited into the liquor revolving fund.
(6)(a) The board must complete the orderly transition from the current state-controlled system to the private licensee system of spirits retailing and distribution as required under this chapter by June 1, 2012.
(b) The transition must include, without limitation, a provision for applying operating and asset sale revenues of the board to just and reasonable measures to avert harm to interests of tribes, military buyers, and nonemployee liquor store operators under then existing contracts for supply by the board of distilled spirits, taking into account present value of issuance of a spirits retail license to the holder of such interest. The provision may extend beyond the time for completion of transition to a spirits licensee system.
(c) Purchases by the federal government from any licensee of the board of spirits for resale through commissaries at military installations are exempt from sales tax based on selling price levied by RCW 82.08.150.
[ 2012 c 2 s 102 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). ]
NOTES:
Finding—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): "(1) The people of the state of Washington, in enacting this initiative measure, find that the state government monopoly on liquor distribution and liquor stores in Washington and the state government regulations that arbitrarily restrict the wholesale distribution and pricing of wine are outdated, inefficient, and costly to local taxpayers, consumers, distributors, and retailers. Therefore, the people wish to privatize and modernize both wholesale distribution and retail sales of liquor and remove outdated restrictions on the wholesale distribution of wine by enacting this initiative.
(2) This initiative will:
(a) Privatize and modernize wholesale distribution and retail sales of liquor in Washington state in a manner that will reduce state government costs and provide increased funding for state and local government services, while continuing to strictly regulate the distribution and sale of liquor;
(b) Get the state government out of the commercial business of distributing, selling, and promoting the sale of liquor, allowing the state to focus on the more appropriate government role of enforcing liquor laws and protecting public health and safety concerning all alcoholic beverages;
(c) Authorize the state to auction off its existing state liquor distribution and state liquor store facilities and equipment;
(d) Allow a private distributor of alcohol to get a license to distribute liquor if that distributor meets the requirements set by the Washington state liquor control board and is approved for a license by the board and create provisions to promote investments by private distributors;
(e) Require private distributors who get licenses to distribute liquor to pay ten percent of their gross spirits revenues to the state during the first two years and five percent of their gross spirits revenues to the state after the first two years;
(f) Allow for a limited number of retail stores to sell liquor if they meet public safety requirements set by this initiative and the liquor control board;
(g) Require that a retail store must have ten thousand square feet or more of fully enclosed retail space within a single structure in order to get a license to sell liquor, with limited exceptions;
(h) Require a retail store to demonstrate to state regulators that it can effectively prevent sales of alcohol to minors in order to get a license to sell liquor;
(i) Ensure that local communities have input before a liquor license can be issued to a local retailer or distributor and maintain all local zoning requirements and authority related to the location of liquor stores;
(j) Require private retailers who get licenses to sell liquor to pay seventeen percent of their gross spirits revenues to the state;
(k) Maintain the current distribution of liquor revenues to local governments and dedicate a portion of the new revenues raised from liquor license fees to increase funding for local public safety programs, including police, fire, and emergency services in communities throughout the state;
(l) Make the standard fines and license suspension penalties for selling liquor to minors twice as strong as the existing fines and penalties for selling beer or wine to minors;
(m) Make requirements for training and supervision of employees selling spirits at retail more stringent than what is now required for sales of beer and wine;
(n) Update the current law on wine distribution to allow wine distributors and wineries to give volume discounts on the wholesale price of wine to retail stores and restaurants; and
(o) Allow retailers and restaurants to distribute wine to their own stores from a central warehouse." [ 2012 c 2 s 101 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
Application—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): "This act does not increase any tax, create any new tax, or eliminate any tax. Section 106 of this act applies to spirits licensees upon December 8, 2011, but all taxes presently imposed by RCW 82.08.150 on sales of spirits by or on behalf of the liquor control board continue to apply so long as the liquor control board makes any such sales." [ 2012 c 2 s 301 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
Rules—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): "The department of revenue must develop rules and procedures to address claims that this act unconstitutionally impairs any contract with the state and to provide a means for reasonable compensation of claims it finds valid, funded first from revenues based on spirits licensing and sale under this act." [ 2012 c 2 s 303 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): "This act takes effect upon approval by the voters. Section 216, subsections (1) and (2) of this act take effect if Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 5942 is enacted by the legislature in 2011 and the bill, or any portion of it, becomes law. Section 216, subsection (3) of this act takes effect if any act or part of an act relating to the warehousing and distribution of liquor, including the lease of the state's liquor warehousing and distribution facilities, is adopted subsequent to May 25, 2011, in any 2011 special session." [ 2012 c 2 s 305 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
(1) There is a spirits retail license to: Sell spirits in original containers to consumers for consumption off the licensed premises and to permit holders; sell spirits in original containers to retailers licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the premises, for resale at their licensed premises according to the terms of their licenses; and export spirits.
(2) For the purposes of this title, a spirits retail license is a retail license, and a sale by a spirits retailer is a retail sale only if not for resale. Nothing in this title authorizes sales by on-sale licensees to other retail licensees. The board must establish by rule an obligation of on-sale spirits retailers to:
(a) Maintain a schedule by stock-keeping unit of all their purchases of spirits from spirits retail licensees, including combination spirits, beer, and wine licensees holding a license issued pursuant to RCW 66.24.035, indicating the identity of the seller and the quantities purchased; and
(b) Provide, not more frequently than quarterly, a report for each scheduled item containing the identity of the purchasing on-premises licensee and the quantities of that scheduled item purchased since any preceding report to:
(i) A distributor authorized by the distiller to distribute a scheduled item in the on-sale licensee's geographic area; or
(ii) A distiller acting as distributor of the scheduled item in the area.
(3)(a) Except as otherwise provided in (c) of this subsection, the board may issue spirits retail licenses only for premises comprising at least 10,000 square feet of fully enclosed retail space within a single structure, including storerooms and other interior auxiliary areas but excluding covered or fenced exterior areas, whether or not attached to the structure, and only to applicants that the board determines will maintain systems for inventory management, employee training, employee supervision, and physical security of the product substantially as effective as those of stores currently operated by the board with respect to preventing sales to or pilferage by underage or inebriated persons.
(b) License issuances and renewals are subject to RCW 66.24.010 and the regulations adopted thereunder, including without limitation rights of cities, towns, county legislative authorities, the public, churches, schools, and public institutions to object to or prevent issuance of local liquor licenses. However, existing grocery premises licensed to sell beer and/or wine are deemed to be premises "now licensed" under RCW 66.24.010(9)(a) for the purpose of processing applications for spirits retail licenses.
(c) The board may not deny a spirits retail license to an otherwise qualified contract liquor store at its contract location or to the holder of former state liquor store operating rights sold at auction under RCW 66.24.620 on the grounds of location, nature, or size of the premises to be licensed. The board may not deny a spirits retail license to applicants that are not contract liquor stores or operating rights holders on the grounds of the size of the premises to be licensed, if such applicant is otherwise qualified and the board determines that:
(i) There is no spirits retail license holder in the trade area that the applicant proposes to serve;
(ii) The applicant meets, or upon licensure will meet, the operational requirements established by the board by rule; and
(iii) The licensee has not committed more than one public safety violation within the three years preceding application.
(d) A retailer authorized to sell spirits for consumption on or off the licensed premises may accept delivery of spirits at its licensed premises, at another licensed premises as designated by the retailer, or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, and from which the retailer may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted under subsection (1) of this section:
(i) To other retailer premises licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the licensed premises;
(ii) To other registered facilities; or
(iii) To lawful purchasers outside the state. The facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of retailers, including at least one retailer licensed to sell spirits.
(e) For purposes of negotiating volume discounts, a group of individual retailers authorized to sell spirits for consumption off the licensed premises may accept delivery of spirits at their individual licensed premises or at any one of the individual licensee's premises, or at a warehouse facility registered with the board.
(4)(a) Except as otherwise provided in RCW 66.24.632, section 2, chapter 48, Laws of 2021, or in (b) of this subsection, each spirits retail licensee must pay to the board, for deposit into the liquor revolving fund, a license issuance fee equivalent to 17 percent of all spirits sales revenues under the license, exclusive of taxes collected by the licensee and of sales of items on which a license fee payable under this section has otherwise been incurred. The board must establish rules setting forth the timing of such payments and reporting of sales dollar volume by the licensee, with payments required quarterly in arrears. The first payment is due October 1, 2012.
(b) This subsection (4) does not apply to craft distilleries for sales of spirits of the craft distillery's own production.
(5) In addition to the payment required under subsection (4) of this section, each licensee must pay an annual license renewal fee of $550. The board must periodically review and adjust the renewal fee as may be required to maintain it as comparable to annual license renewal fees for licenses to sell beer and wine not for consumption on the licensed premises. If required by law at the time, any increase of the annual renewal fee becomes effective only upon ratification by the legislature.
(6) As a condition to receiving and renewing a spirits retail license the licensee must provide training as prescribed by the board by rule for individuals who sell spirits or who manage others who sell spirits regarding compliance with laws and regulations regarding sale of spirits, including without limitation the prohibitions against sale of spirits to individuals who are underage or visibly intoxicated. The training must be provided before the individual first engages in the sale of spirits and must be renewed at least every five years. The licensee must maintain records documenting the nature and frequency of the training provided. An employee training program is presumptively sufficient if it incorporates a "responsible vendor program" adopted by the board.
(7) The maximum penalties prescribed by the board in WAC 314-29-020 through 314-29-040 relating to fines and suspensions are doubled for violations relating to the sale of spirits by spirits retail licensees.
(8)(a) The board must adopt regulations concerning the adoption and administration of a compliance training program for spirits retail licensees, to be known as a "responsible vendor program," to reduce underage drinking, encourage licensees to adopt specific best practices to prevent sales to minors, and provide licensees with an incentive to give their employees ongoing training in responsible alcohol sales and service.
(b) Licensees who join the responsible vendor program under this section and maintain all of the program's requirements are not subject to the doubling of penalties provided in this section for a single violation in any period of 12 calendar months.
(c) The responsible vendor program must be free, voluntary, and self-monitoring.
(d) To participate in the responsible vendor program, licensees must submit an application form to the board. If the application establishes that the licensee meets the qualifications to join the program, the board must send the licensee a membership certificate.
(e) A licensee participating in the responsible vendor program must at a minimum:
(i) Provide ongoing training to employees;
(ii) Accept only certain forms of identification for alcohol sales;
(iii) Adopt policies on alcohol sales and checking identification;
(iv) Post specific signs in the business; and
(v) Keep records verifying compliance with the program's requirements.
(f)(i) A spirits retail licensee that also holds a grocery store license under RCW 66.24.360 or a beer and/or wine specialty shop license under RCW 66.24.371 may, upon board approval and pursuant to board rules, transition to a combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035.
(ii) An applicant that would qualify for a spirits retail license under this section and that qualifies for a combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035 may apply for a license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035 instead of applying for a spirits retail license under this section.
[ 2025 c 343 s 47; 2025 c 95 s 4; 2021 c 48 s 5; 2020 c 238 s 9; 2017 c 96 s 4; 2015 c 186 s 1; 2012 2nd sp.s. c 6 s 401; 2012 c 2 s 103 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 95 s 4 and by 2025 c 343 s 47, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Findings—Intent—Expiration of temporary authorization—Customer identification—Food requirements—Effective date—2021 c 48: See notes following RCW 66.08.071.
Tax preference performance statement and expiration exemption—2021 c 48: See note following RCW 82.08.150.
Existing rights, liabilities, or obligations—Effective dates—Contingent effective dates—2012 2nd sp.s. c 6: See notes following RCW 82.04.29005.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
(1) Beginning June 30, 2013, the license issuance fee under RCW 66.24.630(4) does not apply to a spirits retail licensee or combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee that was a contract liquor store manager with respect to sales of spirits in original containers from the location of its spirits retail licensed premises to retailers licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the premises for resale at their licensed premises.
(2) Beginning June 30, 2013, the license issuance fee under RCW 66.24.630(4) does not apply to a spirits retail licensee or combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee that was a former state store auction buyer, with respect to sales of spirits in original containers from the location of its spirits retail licensed premises to retailers licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the premises for resale at their licensed premises.
(3) The exemptions created in this section attach to any successor, by purchase or otherwise, to the spirits retail license or combination beer and wine license, except that an exemption does not attach to any such successor that owns, directly or indirectly, any interest in a spirits retail license that is not derived directly from a former contract liquor store manager or a former state store auction buyer.
[ 2017 c 96 s 6; 2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2013 2nd sp.s. c 12: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [June 30, 2013]." [ 2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 4.]
Any distiller licensed under this title may act as a retailer and/or distributor to retailers selling for consumption on or off the licensed premises of spirits of its own production, and any manufacturer, importer, or bottler of spirits holding a certificate of approval may act as a distributor of spirits it is entitled to import into the state under such certificate. The board must by rule provide for issuance of certificates of approval to spirits suppliers. An industry member operating as a distributor and/or retailer under this section must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to distributors and/or retailers, except that an industry member operating as a distributor under this section may maintain a warehouse off the distillery premises for the distribution of bottled spirits of its own production to spirits retailers within the state and for bottled foreign-made spirits that such distillery is entitled to distribute under this title, if the warehouse is within the United States and has been approved by the board.
[ 2017 c 229 s 2; 2012 c 2 s 206 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
(1) There is a theater license to sell beer, including strong beer, or wine, or both, at retail, for consumption on theater premises. The annual fee is $600 for a beer and wine theater license.
(2) If the theater premises is to be frequented by minors, an alcohol control plan must be submitted to the board at the time of application. The alcohol control plan must be approved by the board, and be prominently posted on the premises, prior to minors being allowed.
(3) For the purposes of this section:
(a) "Alcohol control plan" means a written, dated, and signed plan submitted to the board by an applicant or licensee for the entire theater premises, or rooms or areas therein, that shows where and when alcohol is permitted, where and when minors are permitted, and the control measures used to ensure that minors are not able to obtain alcohol or be exposed to environments where drinking alcohol predominates.
(b) "Theater" means a place of business where motion pictures or other primarily nonparticipatory entertainment are shown, and includes only theaters with up to four screens.
(4) The board must adopt rules regarding alcohol control plans and necessary control measures to ensure that minors are not able to obtain alcohol or be exposed to areas where drinking alcohol predominates. All alcohol control plans must include a requirement that any person involved in the serving of beer and/or wine must have completed a mandatory alcohol server training program.
(5)(a) A licensee that is an entity that is exempt from taxation under Title 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code of 1986, as amended as of January 1, 2013, may enter into arrangements with a beer or wine manufacturer, importer, or distributor for brand advertising at the theater or promotion of events held at the theater. The financial arrangements providing for the brand advertising or promotion of events may not be used as an inducement to purchase the products of the manufacturer, importer, or distributor entering into the arrangement and such arrangements may not result in the exclusion of brands or products of other companies.
(b) The arrangements allowed under this subsection (5) are an exception to arrangements prohibited under RCW 66.28.305. The board must monitor the impacts of these arrangements. The board may conduct audits of a licensee and the affiliated business to determine compliance with this subsection (5). Audits may include, but are not limited to: Product selection at the facility; purchase patterns of the licensee; contracts with the beer or wine manufacturer, importer, or distributor; and the amount allocated or used for wine or beer advertising by the licensee, affiliated business, manufacturer, importer, or distributor under the arrangements.
(6) The maximum penalties prescribed by the board in WAC 314-29-020 relating to fines and suspensions are double for violations involving minors or the failure to follow the alcohol control plan with respect to theaters licensed under this section.
[ 2025 c 343 s 48; (2022 c 116 s 19 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 16; 2013 c 219 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
(1)(a) There is a theater license to sell spirits, beer, including strong beer, or wine, or all, at retail, for consumption on theater premises. A spirits, beer, and wine theater license may be issued only to theaters that have no more than 200 seats per screen and that are maintained in a substantial manner as a place for preparing, cooking, and serving complete meals and providing tabletop accommodations for in-theater dining.
(b) Requirements for complete meals are the same as those adopted by the board in rules pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW for a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license authorized by RCW 66.24.400. The annual fee for a spirits, beer, and wine theater license is $2,500.
(2) If the theater premises is to be frequented by minors, an alcohol control plan must be submitted to the board at the time of application. The alcohol control plan must be approved by the board and be prominently posted on the premises, prior to minors being allowed. Alcohol control plan measures must include at least:
(a) Regular monitoring by staff who have completed an alcohol server training program;
(b) Electronic identification scanners used at all points of sale for alcoholic beverage purchases; and
(c) Identification checks for all alcoholic beverage purchases regardless of the age of the consumer.
(3) For the purposes of this section:
(a) "Alcohol control plan" means a written, dated, and signed plan submitted to the board by an applicant or licensee for the entire theater premises, or rooms or areas therein, that shows where and when alcohol is permitted, where and when minors are permitted, and the control measures used to ensure that minors are not able to obtain alcohol or be exposed to environments where drinking alcohol predominates.
(b) "Theater" means a place of business where motion pictures or other primarily nonparticipatory entertainment are shown.
(4) The board must adopt rules regarding alcohol control plans and necessary control measures to ensure that minors are not able to obtain alcohol or be exposed to areas where drinking alcohol predominates. All alcohol control plans must include a requirement that any person involved in the serving of spirits, beer, and/or wine must have completed a mandatory alcohol server training program.
(5)(a) A licensee that is an entity that is exempt from taxation under Title 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code of 1986, as amended as of January 1, 2013, may enter into arrangements with a spirits, beer, or wine manufacturer, importer, or distributor for brand advertising at the theater or promotion of events held at the theater. The financial arrangements providing for the brand advertising or promotion of events may not be used as an inducement to purchase the products of the manufacturer, importer, or distributor entering into the arrangement and such arrangements may not result in the exclusion of brands or products of other companies.
(b) The arrangements allowed under this subsection (5) are an exception to arrangements prohibited under RCW 66.28.305. The board must monitor the impacts of these arrangements. The board may conduct audits of a licensee and the affiliated business to determine compliance with this subsection (5). Audits may include, but are not limited to: Product selection at the facility; purchase patterns of the licensee; contracts with the spirits, beer, or wine manufacturer, importer, or distributor; and the amount allocated or used for spirits, beer, or wine advertising by the licensee, affiliated business, manufacturer, importer, or distributor under the arrangements.
(6) The maximum penalties prescribed by the board in WAC 314-29-020 relating to fines and suspensions are double for violations involving minors or the failure to follow the alcohol control plan with respect to theaters licensed under this section.
[ 2026 c 30 s 1; 2025 c 343 s 49; (2022 c 116 s 5 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 17; 2013 c 237 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Retailers may sell liquor as defined in RCW 66.04.010 through self-checkout registers if that register is programmed to halt that transaction during the purchase of liquor until an employee of the retailer intervenes and verifies the age of the purchaser by reviewing established forms of acceptable identification. Once age is successfully verified, the employee can release the transaction for payment. If the purchaser cannot provide acceptable forms of identification to verify age, the employee must refuse the purchase and void the transaction.
[ 2023 c 279 s 5; 2013 c 89 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2023 c 279: See note following RCW 66.24.710.
(1) The holder of a spirits retail license that is also a participant in the responsible vendor program, created under RCW 66.24.630, may provide, free or for a charge, single-serving samples of one-half ounce or less of spirits, and no more than a total of one and one-half ounces in spirits samples per person, for the purpose of sale promotion. Servers who provide spirit samples must hold a class 12 alcohol server permit. Sampling conducted under this section must be conducted in accordance with rules established for sampling activities in beer and wine specialty shops and grocery stores.
(2) Sampling activities under this section are subject to RCW 66.28.305 and 66.28.040 and the cost of sampling under this section may not be borne, directly or indirectly, by any manufacturer, importer, distiller, or distributor of spirits.
[ 2013 c 234 s 1. ]
(1) Except as provided in RCW 66.24.170, 66.24.175, 66.24.363, and 66.24.371 any licensee authorized under this chapter to serve beer on tap or wine for consumption on the premises may provide samples of beer and wine free of charge for consumption on the premises.
(2) Each sample provided under this section must be two ounces or less. A licensee may provide a maximum of four ounces of samples per customer per day.
[ 2015 c 180 s 1. ]
(1) There shall be a license to be designated as a senior center license. This shall be a license issued to a nonprofit organization whose primary service is providing recreational and social activities for seniors on the licensed premises. This license shall permit the licensee to sell spirits by the individual glass, including mixed drinks and cocktails mixed on the premises only, beer and wine, at retail for consumption on the premises.
(2) To qualify for this license, the applicant entity must:
(a) Be a nonprofit organization under chapter 24.03A RCW;
(b) Be open at times and durations established by the board; and
(c) Provide limited food service as defined by the board.
(3) All alcohol servers must have a valid mandatory alcohol server training permit.
(4) The board shall adopt rules to implement this section.
(5) The annual fee for this license shall be $720.
[ 2025 c 343 s 50. Prior: (2022 c 116 s 20 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 176 s 5235; 2021 c 6 s 18; 2014 c 78 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 176: See note following RCW 24.03A.005.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
(1) There shall be a caterer's license to sell spirits, beer, and wine, by the individual serving, at retail, for consumption on the premises at an event location that is either owned, leased, or operated either by the caterer or the sponsor of the event for which catering services are being provided. If the event is open to the public, except as provided in RCW 66.24.800(3), it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined in RCW 66.24.375. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined in RCW 66.24.375 is waived. The licensee must serve food as required by rules of the board.
(2) The annual fee is $300 for the beer license, $300 for the wine license, or $600 for a combination beer and wine license. The annual fee for a combined beer, wine, and spirits license is $1,500.
(3) The holder of this license shall notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any catered event at which liquor will be served, sold, or consumed. The board shall create rules detailing notification requirements. Upon request, the licensee shall provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the individual, society, or organization that will be holding the catered function at which the caterer's liquor license will be utilized.
(4) The holder of this license may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on other premises operated by the licensee so long as the other premises are owned or controlled by a leasehold interest by that licensee.
(5) The holder of this license is prohibited from catering events at locations that are already licensed to sell liquor under this chapter.
(6) The holder of this license is responsible for all sales, service, and consumption of alcohol at the location of the catered event.
[ 2025 c 361 s 7; 2025 c 343 s 51; (2022 c 116 s 6 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 19; 2014 c 29 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 343 s 51 and by 2025 c 361 s 7, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Finding—Intent—Expiration date—2025 c 361: See notes following RCW 66.24.800.
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
PDFRCW 66.24.690
Caterer's license. (Effective December 31, 2027.)
(1) There shall be a caterer's license to sell spirits, beer, and wine, by the individual serving, at retail, for consumption on the premises at an event location that is either owned, leased, or operated either by the caterer or the sponsor of the event for which catering services are being provided. If the event is open to the public, it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined in RCW 66.24.375. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined in RCW 66.24.375 is waived. The licensee must serve food as required by rules of the board.
(2) The annual fee is $300 for the beer license, $300 for the wine license, or $600 for a combination beer and wine license. The annual fee for a combined beer, wine, and spirits license is $1,500.
(3) The holder of this license shall notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any catered event at which liquor will be served, sold, or consumed. The board shall create rules detailing notification requirements. Upon request, the licensee shall provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the individual, society, or organization that will be holding the catered function at which the caterer's liquor license will be utilized.
(4) The holder of this license may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on other premises operated by the licensee so long as the other premises are owned or controlled by a leasehold interest by that licensee.
(5) The holder of this license is prohibited from catering events at locations that are already licensed to sell liquor under this chapter.
(6) The holder of this license is responsible for all sales, service, and consumption of alcohol at the location of the catered event.
[ 2025 c 343 s 51; (2022 c 116 s 6 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 19; 2014 c 29 s 1.]
Expiration date—2022 c 116 ss 2-20: See note following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—Finding—Intent—2022 c 116: See notes following RCW 66.24.420.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
(1) There shall be a bonded and nonbonded spirits warehouse license for spirits warehouses that authorizes the storage and handling of bonded bulk spirits and, to the extent allowed under federal law and under rules adopted by the board, bottled spirits and the storage of tax-paid spirits not in bond. Under this license a licensee may maintain a warehouse for the storage of federally authorized spirits off the premises of a distillery for distillers qualified under RCW 66.24.140, 66.24.145, or 66.24.150, or entities otherwise licensed and permitted in this state, or bulk spirits transferred in bond from out-of-state distilleries and, to the extent allowed by federal law and under rules adopted by the board, bottled spirits, if the storage of the federally authorized spirits transferred into the state is for storage only and not for processing or bottling in the bonded spirits warehouse. A licensee must designate clearly in its license application to the board the sections of the warehouse that are bonded and nonbonded with a physical separation between such spaces. Only spirits in bond may be stored in the bonded sections of the warehouse and only spirits that have been removed from bond tax-paid may be stored in nonbonded areas of the warehouse. The proprietor of the warehouse must maintain a plan for tracking spirits being stored in the warehouse to ensure compliance with relevant bonding and tax obligations.
(2) The board must adopt similar qualifications for a spirits warehouse licensed under this section as required for obtaining a distillery license as specified in RCW 66.24.140, 66.24.145, and 66.24.150. A licensee must be a sole proprietor, a partnership, a limited liability company, a corporation, a port authority, a city, a county, or any other public entity or subdivision of the state that elects to license a bonded spirits warehouse as an agricultural or economic development activity. One or more domestic distilleries or manufacturers may operate as a partnership, corporation, business co-op, cotenant, or agricultural co-op for the purpose of obtaining a bonded and nonbonded spirits warehouse license or storing spirits in the facility under a common management and oversight agreement free of charge or for a fee.
(3) Spirits in bond may be removed from a bonded spirits warehouse for the purpose of being:
(a) Exported from the state;
(b) Returned to a distillery or spirits warehouse licensed under this section; or
(c) Transferred to a distillery, spirits warehouse licensed under this section, or a licensed bottling or packaging facility.
(4) Bottled spirits that are being removed from a spirits warehouse licensed under this section tax-paid may be:
(a) Transferred back to the distillery that produced them;
(b) Shipped to a licensed Washington spirits distributor;
(c) Shipped to a licensed Washington spirits retailer;
(d) Exported from the state; or
(e) Removed for direct shipping to a consumer pursuant to RCW 66.20.410.
(5) The ownership and operation of a spirits warehouse facility licensed under this section may be by a person or entity other than those described in this section acting in a commercial warehouse management position under contract for such licensed persons or entities on their behalf.
(6) A license applicant must demonstrate the right to have warehoused spirits under a valid federal permit held by a licensee who maintains ownership and title to the spirits while they are in storage in the spirits warehouse licensed under this section. The fee for this license is $150 per year.
(7) The board must adopt rules requiring a spirits warehouse licensed under this section to be physically secure, zoned for the intended use, and physically separated from any other use.
(8) The operator or licensee operating a spirits warehouse licensed under this section must submit to the board a monthly report of movement of spirits to and from a warehouse licensed under this section in a form prescribed by the board. The board may adopt other necessary procedures by which such warehouses are licensed and regulated.
(9) The board may require a single annual permit valid for a full calendar year issued to each licensee or entity warehousing spirits under this section that allows for unlimited transfers to and from such warehouse within that year. The fee for this permit is $150 per year.
(10) Handling of bottled spirits that have been removed from bond tax-paid and that reside in the spirits warehouse licensed under this section includes packaging and repackaging services; bottle labeling services; creating baskets or variety packs that may or may not include nonspirits products; and picking, packing, and shipping spirits orders on behalf of a licensed distillery direct to consumers in accordance with RCW 66.20.410. A distillery contracting with the operator of a spirits warehouse licensed under this section for handling bottled spirits must comply with all applicable state and federal laws and is responsible for financial transactions in direct to consumer shipping activities.
[ 2025 c 343 s 52; 2017 c 229 s 1. ]
(1) Any licensee authorized to sell at retail under this chapter may sell gift certificates and gift cards intended to be exchanged for consumer goods or services, including liquor sold by the licensee. The licensee may also sell the gift certificates and gift cards to or through a third-party retailer for resale to the public. Gift certificates and gift cards may not be redeemed for alcohol by persons under the age of twenty-one.
(2) For the purposes of this section, "gift certificate" and "gift cards" have the same meaning as provided in RCW 19.240.010.
[ 2015 c 194 s 5. ]
(1)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, the following licensees may sell alcohol products at retail for takeout or delivery or both under liquor and cannabis board licenses and endorsements: Beer and wine restaurants; spirits, beer, and wine restaurants; taverns; domestic wineries; domestic breweries and microbreweries; distilleries; snack bars; nonprofit arts licensees; and caterers.
(b) No alcohol products may be sold by delivery under this section after July 1, 2025.
(2) Spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees may sell premixed cocktails for takeout and, until July 1, 2025, for delivery. The board may establish by rule the manner in which premixed cocktails for off-premises consumption must be provided. This subsection does not authorize the sale of bottles of spirits by licensees for off-premises consumption.
(3) Spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees may sell wine by the glass or premixed wine and spirits cocktails for takeout and, until July 1, 2025, delivery. Beer and wine restaurant licensees may sell wine or premixed wine drinks by the glass for takeout and, until July 1, 2025, delivery. The board may establish by rule the manner in which wine by the glass and premixed cocktails for off-premises consumption must be provided.
(4) Licensees that were authorized by statute or rule before January 1, 2020, to sell growlers for on-premises consumption may sell growlers for off-premises consumption through takeout or, until July 1, 2025, delivery. Sale of growlers under this subsection must meet federal alcohol and tobacco tax and trade bureau requirements.
(5)(a) Licensees must obtain from the board an endorsement to their license in order to conduct activities authorized under subsections (1) through (4) of this section. The board may adopt rules governing the manner in which the activities authorized under this section must be conducted. Licensees must not be charged a fee in order to obtain an endorsement required under this section.
(b)(i) Alcohol delivery under this section must be performed by an employee of an alcohol delivery endorsement holder who is 21 years of age or older and possesses a class 12 permit, in accordance with RCW 66.20.310.
(ii) Delivery services conducted by beer and wine restaurant licensees and spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees under this section must be accompanied by a purchased meal prepared and sold by the license holder.
(c) Alcohol sold for takeout by beer and wine restaurant licensees and spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees under this section must be accompanied by a purchased meal prepared and sold by the license holder.
(d) Any alcohol product sold for takeout or delivery under this section must be in a factory sealed container or a tamper-resistant container.
(6) Beer and wine specialty shops licensed under RCW 66.24.371 and domestic breweries and microbreweries may sell prefilled growlers for off-premises consumption through takeout and, until July 1, 2025, delivery, provided that prefilled growlers are sold the same day they are prepared for sale and not stored overnight for sale on future days.
(7) Subject to RCW 66.24.800, the board must adopt or revise current rules to allow for outdoor service of alcohol by on-premises licensees holding licenses issued by the board for the following license types: Beer and wine restaurants; spirits, beer, and wine restaurants; taverns; domestic wineries; domestic breweries and microbreweries; distilleries; snack bars; private clubs licensed under RCW 66.24.450 and 66.24.452; and special occasion licensees under RCW 66.24.380. The board may adopt requirements providing for clear accountability at locations where multiple licensees use a shared space for serving customers, and at locations where a licensee or licensees use a shared space with another business or businesses that do not engage in the sale or service of alcohol under RCW 66.24.800.
(8) Upon delivery of any alcohol product authorized to be delivered under this section, the signature of the person age 21 or over receiving the delivery must be obtained.
(9) For the purposes of this section, "growlers" means sanitary containers brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled by the retailer at the time of sale.
[ 2025 c 361 s 4; 2023 c 279 s 1; 2021 c 48 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—Expiration date—2025 c 361: See notes following RCW 66.24.800.
Effective date—2023 c 279: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2023." [ 2023 c 279 s 8.]
PDFRCW 66.24.710
Takeout or delivery. (Effective December 31, 2027.)
(1)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, the following licensees may sell alcohol products at retail for takeout or delivery or both under liquor and cannabis board licenses and endorsements: Beer and wine restaurants; spirits, beer, and wine restaurants; taverns; domestic wineries; domestic breweries and microbreweries; distilleries; snack bars; nonprofit arts licensees; and caterers.
(b) No alcohol products may be sold by delivery under this section after July 1, 2025.
(2) Spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees may sell premixed cocktails for takeout and, until July 1, 2025, for delivery. The board may establish by rule the manner in which premixed cocktails for off-premises consumption must be provided. This subsection does not authorize the sale of bottles of spirits by licensees for off-premises consumption.
(3) Spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees may sell wine by the glass or premixed wine and spirits cocktails for takeout and, until July 1, 2025, delivery. Beer and wine restaurant licensees may sell wine or premixed wine drinks by the glass for takeout and, until July 1, 2025, delivery. The board may establish by rule the manner in which wine by the glass and premixed cocktails for off-premises consumption must be provided.
(4) Licensees that were authorized by statute or rule before January 1, 2020, to sell growlers for on-premises consumption may sell growlers for off-premises consumption through takeout or, until July 1, 2025, delivery. Sale of growlers under this subsection must meet federal alcohol and tobacco tax and trade bureau requirements.
(5)(a) Licensees must obtain from the board an endorsement to their license in order to conduct activities authorized under subsections (1) through (4) of this section. The board may adopt rules governing the manner in which the activities authorized under this section must be conducted. Licensees must not be charged a fee in order to obtain an endorsement required under this section.
(b)(i) Alcohol delivery under this section must be performed by an employee of an alcohol delivery endorsement holder who is 21 years of age or older and possesses a class 12 permit, in accordance with RCW 66.20.310.
(ii) Delivery services conducted by beer and wine restaurant licensees and spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees under this section must be accompanied by a purchased meal prepared and sold by the license holder.
(c) Alcohol sold for takeout by beer and wine restaurant licensees and spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees under this section must be accompanied by a purchased meal prepared and sold by the license holder.
(d) Any alcohol product sold for takeout or delivery under this section must be in a factory sealed container or a tamper-resistant container.
(6) Beer and wine specialty shops licensed under RCW 66.24.371 and domestic breweries and microbreweries may sell prefilled growlers for off-premises consumption through takeout and, until July 1, 2025, delivery, provided that prefilled growlers are sold the same day they are prepared for sale and not stored overnight for sale on future days.
(7) The board must adopt or revise current rules to allow for outdoor service of alcohol by on-premises licensees holding licenses issued by the board for the following license types: Beer and wine restaurants; spirits, beer, and wine restaurants; taverns; domestic wineries; domestic breweries and microbreweries; distilleries; snack bars; and private clubs licensed under RCW 66.24.450 and 66.24.452. The board may adopt requirements providing for clear accountability at locations where multiple licensees use a shared space for serving customers.
(8) Upon delivery of any alcohol product authorized to be delivered under this section, the signature of the person age 21 or over receiving the delivery must be obtained.
(9) The definitions in this subsection apply throughout this section unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(a) "Board" means the liquor and cannabis board.
(b) "Growlers" means sanitary containers brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled by the retailer at the time of sale.
[ 2023 c 279 s 1; 2021 c 48 s 2.]
Effective date—2023 c 279: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2023." [ 2023 c 279 s 8.]
(1) The board may not adopt a rule or enforce any such rule restricting the exposure of body parts by any licensee under this title, its employees or patrons, or any other person under the control or direction of the licensee or an employee, or otherwise restricting sexually oriented conduct of any licensee under this title, its employees or patrons, or any other person under the control or direction of the licensee or an employee.
(2) This section may not be construed to permit conduct that is otherwise prohibited under other statutes in the Revised Code of Washington.
[ 2024 c 250 s 4. ]
NOTES:
Rule repeal—2024 c 250: "The liquor and cannabis board shall repeal WAC 314-11-050 in its entirety. The liquor and cannabis board is preempted from adopting any similar rule as provided under section 4 of this act." [ 2024 c 250 s 5.]
(1)(a) Beginning on July 27, 2025, until December 31, 2027, and subject to (d) of this subsection (1) and subsection (5) of this section, a city, town, county, or port authority may request, and the board may approve, expanded outdoor alcohol service for liquor licensees within the whole city, town, county, or port authority, or within a specific area or areas of the city, town, county, or port authority as provided in (b) and (c) of this subsection (1). If requested by a county, the approval may only be for unincorporated areas of the county.
(b) For licensees identified in (c) of this subsection (1) who have requested approval from and been authorized by the board's licensing division to conduct outdoor alcohol service, and who are located within an area of a city, town, or county that has been approved by the board for expanded outdoor alcohol service, the following authorizations and requirements apply until December 31, 2027:
(i) All outdoor alcohol service areas may be enclosed, at the licensee's discretion, by means of a permanent or movable barrier or by means of a permanent fence-free demarcation;
(ii) For an outdoor alcohol service area enclosed by means of a permanent or movable barrier of a minimum height specified by the board, the permanent or movable barrier is not required to meet minimum height requirements on sloped site conditions;
(iii) The openings into and out of an outdoor alcohol service area may be up to a maximum distance apart as determined appropriate by the applicable city, town, or county;
(iv) Licensees may share use of an outdoor alcohol service area with other licensees and licensees may share use of an outdoor alcohol service area with businesses that do not engage in the sale or service of alcohol, subject to requirements of the board. All participating licensees are jointly responsible for any violation or enforcement issues unless it can be demonstrated that the violation or enforcement issue was due to one or more licensee's specific conduct or action, in which case the violation or enforcement applies only to those identified licensees; and
(v) An employee of the licensee must be assigned to, but is not required to be in, the outdoor alcohol service area at all times that patrons are present. A direct line of sight is not required from inside the licensed premises to the outdoor alcohol service area.
(c) The authorization in this subsection (1) is available to the following liquor licensees: Beer and wine restaurants; spirits, beer, and wine restaurants; taverns; domestic wineries; domestic breweries and microbreweries; distilleries; and snack bars.
(d) A city, town, county, or port authority that requests and is approved for expanded outdoor alcohol service shall provide, and document the provision of:
(i) Adequate local resources, including law enforcement patrols in the area, to ensure safe operations of activities and the safety of the community; and
(ii) Services to keep the area of the jurisdiction in which the activities occur clean and free of litter or other remnants of the use of public spaces for expanded outdoor alcohol service.
(2)(a) A city with a population of more than 220,000 may request, and the board may approve, expanded alcohol service during events on a publicly owned civic campus in the city, as provided in (b) through (f) of this subsection (2) and subject to subsection (5) of this section. No more than 25 events per year, up to seven of which may be multiday events, may be authorized for a city under this subsection (2).
(b) Multiple licensees located on a publicly owned civic campus in a city with a population of more than 220,000 that has been approved under (a) of this subsection (2) may share an alcohol service area encompassing the entire publicly owned civic campus, or part of the publicly owned civic campus, so long as:
(i) The board approves of the event perimeter enclosing the alcohol service area;
(ii) Security and physical barriers are provided at all entry points to the event;
(iii) The campus operator notifies the board within a minimum time required by the board in rule before the event begins;
(iv) Signage is conspicuously posted during the event notifying the public that the area is in use as an expanded alcohol service area and public notice of the upcoming use of the area as an expanded alcohol service area was conspicuously posted at least seven days in advance; and
(v) All participating licensees submit a joint operating plan to the board for approval, in a format designated by the board, that describes: (A) How the licensees will prevent the sale and service of alcohol to persons under 21 years of age and those who appear to be intoxicated; (B) the ratio of alcohol service staff and security staff to the anticipated number of attendees, subject to a ratio requirement that may be set by the board; (C) training provided to staff who serve, regulate, or supervise the service of alcohol including that alcohol server training is required for all such staff; (D) the licensees' policy on the number of alcoholic beverages that will be served to an individual patron during one transaction, subject to a limit determined by the board; (E) an explanation of the alcoholic beverage containers that will be used to ensure they are significantly different from containers used from nonalcoholic beverages; (F) the barriers or demarcations to be used for an alcohol service area or event perimeter; and (G) other information required by the board in rule.
(c) At the board's discretion, violations of (b)(iii) or (iv) of this subsection can be cause for denial of approval of events conducted under this subsection and violations of (b)(iv) of this subsection can also be cause for denial of a license of the participating licensees or denial of participation in future events under this section.
(d) Multiple licensees located on a publicly owned civic campus in a city with a population of more than 220,000 that has been approved under (a) of this subsection (2) may share an indoor alcohol service area at certain times authorized by the campus operator, so long as:
(i) The campus operator notifies the board at least seven days in advance of the date licensees intend to begin operating the shared indoor alcohol service area;
(ii) The campus operator ensures security and physical barriers are provided at all entry points to the indoor alcohol service area; and
(iii) The licensees submit a joint operating plan to the board for approval meeting the requirements of (b)(v) of this subsection (2).
(e) With respect to multiple licensees sharing an alcohol service area as authorized under (b) or (d) of this subsection (2), all participating licensees are jointly responsible for any violation or enforcement issues unless it can be demonstrated that the violation or enforcement issue was due to one or more licensee's specific conduct or action, in which case the violation or enforcement applies only to those identified licensees.
(f) During the times a licensee is operating under the authorization in this subsection (2) or subsection (4) of this section, the licensee may:
(i) Operate without a permit from their local jurisdiction that may otherwise be required to allow the business to use the public space as an alcohol service area;
(ii) Share an alcohol service area with another licensee: (A) Without individually requesting approval from the board's licensing division; and (B) regardless of whether the licensees' property parcels or buildings are located in direct physical proximity to one another; and
(iii) Sell and serve alcohol to customers from an alcohol service area without offering food service menu options, except that any required food service must still be provided within the licensed premises, and in any preexisting alcohol service area operated by the licensee under the board's rules that does not rely on the authorization in this section, if the preexisting alcohol service area remains in place during an event.
(3)(a) The authorization in subsections (2) and (4) of this section is available to: Beer and wine restaurants; spirits, beer, and wine restaurants; taverns; domestic wineries; domestic breweries and microbreweries; distilleries; snack bars; and special occasion licensees under RCW 66.24.380.
(b) A caterer's license shall be issued to an eligible applicant under RCW 66.24.690 for an event open to the public and held on a publicly owned civic campus in a city with a population of more than 220,000 under subsection (2) of this section or in an area or areas of a jurisdiction approved under subsection (4) of this section, even if the sponsor of the event for which catering services are being provided is not a society or organization as defined in RCW 66.24.375, if license and regulatory requirements are otherwise met.
(4)(a) A city, town, county, or port authority that has been designated as a fan zone or host city from an international self-regulatory governing body of a sports association, or a nonprofit organization authorized by such an entity, may request, and the board may approve, expanded outdoor and indoor alcohol service for liquor licensees within an area or areas of the jurisdiction. The authorization in this subsection (4) may be used to allow expanded alcohol sales and service only during a single multiday event in each approved jurisdiction in either of the months of June or July of 2026.
(b) Multiple licensees located within an area of a city, town, county, or port authority approved under this subsection for expanded alcohol service may share an alcohol service area encompassing the entire approved area or areas, during the event, so long as:
(i) The board approves of the event perimeter enclosing the alcohol service area;
(ii) Security and physical barriers are provided at all entry points to the event;
(iii) The applicable city, town, county, or port authority through a designated official notifies the board within a minimum time required by the board in rule before the event begins;
(iv) Signage is conspicuously posted during the event notifying the public that the area is in use as an expanded alcohol service area and public notice of the upcoming use of the area as an expanded alcohol service area was conspicuously posted at least seven days in advance; and
(v) All participating licensees submit a joint operating plan to the board for approval, in a format designated by the board, that meets the requirements of subsection (2)(b)(v) of this section.
(c) Licensees operating under this subsection (4) may share use of an alcohol service area with other licensees and licensees may share use of an alcohol service area with businesses that do not engage in the sale or service of alcohol, subject to requirements of the board. All participating licensees are jointly responsible for any violation or enforcement issues unless it can be demonstrated that the violation or enforcement issue was due to one or more licensee's specific conduct or action, in which case the violation or enforcement applies only to those identified licensees.
(d) During the times a licensee is operating under the authorization in this subsection (4), the licensee may operate as provided in subsection (2)(f) of this section.
(5) The board must impose a fee on any or all of the following licensees and local governments in order to cover but not exceed the board's administrative and enforcement costs related to activities authorized under this section:
(a) A licensee seeking to operate under the authorization in this section, as a condition to exercising privileges in this section;
(b) A city, town, county, or port authority applying for expanded outdoor alcohol service privileges for licensees under subsection (1) of this section;
(c) A city with a population of more than 220,000 applying for expanded alcohol service privileges for licensees during events on a publicly owned civic campus under subsection (2) of this section; and
(d) A city, town, county, or port authority designated as a fan zone or host city applying for expanded alcohol service privileges for licensees during an event in June or July of 2026 in an approved area or areas of the jurisdiction.
(6) The definitions in this subsection apply throughout this section unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(a) "Alcohol service area" means an area in which liquor may be sold, served, and consumed as authorized under this title and rules of the board.
(b) "Board" means the liquor and cannabis board.
(c) "Campus operator" means the person who has primary responsibility for making managerial or executive decisions relating to operations and activities at a publicly owned civic campus or the person's designee.
(d) "Publicly owned civic campus" means the buildings, facilities, grounds, lands, and spaces owned by a city and designated as a city center, and used for civic, arts, cultural, sports, and other community and family events and activities, being not more than 100 acres in size on July 27, 2025.
[ 2025 c 361 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—2025 c 361: "(1) The legislature finds that updating and modernizing the regulation of alcohol service in public spaces by building upon the regulatory framework established in agency rules governing this activity will benefit the citizens of Washington, the restaurant and hospitality industry, nonprofit organizations, as well as local and state government in Washington, and will help prepare Washington to successfully host a major international sports event in 2026.
(2) The legislature intends that passage and implementation of this act will allow for event environments that emphasize safe crowd management of high volumes of people, a pleasant event experience that maximizes mobility for event guests, especially families, and maintains safe operations that ensure alcohol is not accessed or consumed by persons under age 21, overservice is prevented, and alcohol does not leave the premises.
(3) Therefore, subject to the requirements in this section:
(a) From July 27, 2025, until December 31, 2027, the legislature intends to authorize local governments to request from the liquor and cannabis board, and for the board to reasonably approve, that expanded outdoor alcohol service in public spaces be allowed for liquor licensees in their jurisdictions;
(b) From July 27, 2025, until December 31, 2027, the legislature intends to authorize certain cities to request from the liquor and cannabis board, and for the board to reasonably approve, that expanded outdoor and indoor alcohol service in public spaces be allowed for liquor licensees operating during events on publicly owned civic campuses; and
(c) During the months of June and July of 2026, the legislature intends to authorize certain local governments to request from the liquor and cannabis board, and for the board to reasonably approve, that expanded outdoor and indoor alcohol service in public spaces be allowed for certain liquor licensees operating during a single multiday event in an approved area or areas of a city, town, county, or port authority that is a designated fan zone or host city." [ 2025 c 361 s 1.]
Expiration date—2025 c 361: "This act expires December 31, 2027." [ 2025 c 361 s 10.]
A publicly owned civic campus identified in RCW 66.24.800(2) in a city with a population of more than 220,000 that has requested and been approved for expanded alcohol service and that uses the authorization, must report to the legislature and the liquor and cannabis board by January 1, 2027, and include a description of the activities conducted, the benefits realized, and challenges encountered, while this legislation was in effect.
[ 2025 c 361 s 8. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—Expiration date—2025 c 361: See notes following RCW 66.24.800.
(1) By September 1, 2026, a city, town, county, or port authority that has requested and been approved by the liquor and cannabis board for expanded alcohol service under RCW 66.24.800 (1), (2), or (4), and that uses the authorization, shall conduct a public engagement review by contacting local organizations, individual residents, businesses, and others in the local community where expanded alcohol sales and service occurred or is occurring, to gain a balanced understanding of how the activities were or are being experienced by people in the community. The public engagement review required by this section must include examining:
(a) Whether adequate local resources, including law enforcement patrols in the area, were or are provided during times that expanded alcohol service was or is offered, to ensure community safety;
(b) Whether services were or are provided to keep the area of the jurisdiction in which the activities occurred or are occurring clean and free of litter or other remnants of the use of public spaces for expanded alcohol service; and
(c) The costs and benefits to the community of expanded alcohol sales and service perceived by residents throughout the community.
(2) A city, town, county, or port authority conducting a review under this section shall submit the results in a report to the liquor and cannabis board by September 1, 2026.
[ 2025 c 361 s 9. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—Expiration date—2025 c 361: See notes following RCW 66.24.800.
For the purposes of this chapter, the terms spouse, marriage, marital, husband, wife, widow, widower, next of kin, and family shall be interpreted as applying equally to state registered domestic partnerships or individuals in state registered domestic partnerships as well as to marital relationships and married persons, and references to dissolution of marriage shall apply equally to state registered domestic partnerships that have been terminated, dissolved, or invalidated, to the extent that such interpretation does not conflict with federal law. Where necessary to implement chapter 521, Laws of 2009, gender-specific terms such as husband and wife used in any statute, rule, or other law shall be construed to be gender neutral, and applicable to individuals in state registered domestic partnerships.
[ 2009 c 521 s 146. ]
Every domestic distillery, brewery, and microbrewery, domestic winery, certificate of approval holder, licensed spirits importer, licensed wine importer, and licensed beer importer is responsible for the conduct of any licensed spirits, beer, or wine distributor in selling, or contracting to sell, to retail licensees, spirits, beer, or wine manufactured by such domestic distillery, brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, manufacturer holding a certificate of approval, sold by an authorized representative holding a certificate of approval, or imported by such spirits, beer, or wine importer. Where the board finds that any licensed spirits, beer, or wine distributor has violated any of the provisions of this title or of the regulations of the board in selling or contracting to sell spirits, beer, or wine to retail licensees, the board may, in addition to any punishment inflicted or imposed upon such distributor, prohibit the sale of the brand or brands of spirits, beer, or wine involved in such violation to any or all retail licensees within the trade territory usually served by such distributor for such period of time as the board may fix, irrespective of whether the distiller manufacturing such spirits or the spirits importer importing such spirits, brewer manufacturing such beer or the beer importer importing such beer, or the domestic winery manufacturing such wine or the wine importer importing such wine or the certificate of approval holder manufacturing such spirits, beer, or wine or acting as authorized representative actually participated in such violation.
[ 2016 c 235 s 13; 2012 c 2 s 113 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2004 c 160 s 10; 1997 c 321 s 47; 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 8; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 6; 1939 c 172 s 8 (adding new section 27-D to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-27D. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Severability—Effective date—1975 1st ex.s. c 173: See notes following RCW 66.08.050.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
(1) By the 20th day of each month, all spirits certificate of approval holders must file with the board, in a form and manner required by the board, a report of all spirits delivered to purchasers in this state during the preceding month. Copies of the invoices for all such purchases or other information required by the board that would disclose the identity of the purchasers must be made available upon request.
(2) A spirits certificate of approval holder may not ship or cause to be transported into this state any spirits unless the purchaser to whom the spirits are to be delivered is:
(a) Licensed by the board to sell spirits in this state, and the license is in good standing; or
(b) Otherwise legally authorized to sell spirits in this state.
(3) The liquor and cannabis board must maintain on its website a list of all purchasers that meet the conditions of subsection (2) of this section.
(4) A violation of this section is grounds for suspension of a spirits certificate of approval license in accordance with RCW 66.08.150, in addition to any punishment as may be authorized by RCW 66.28.030.
[ 2016 c 235 s 14; 2012 c 39 s 7. ]
NOTES:
Construction—Effective date—2012 c 39: See notes following RCW 82.08.155.
(1) Except as permitted by the board under RCW 66.20.010, or as allowed under this title, no domestic brewery, microbrewery, distributor, distiller, domestic winery, importer, rectifier, certificate of approval holder, or other manufacturer of liquor may, within the state of Washington, give to any person any liquor without charge.
(2) Nothing in this section nor in RCW 66.28.305 prevents a domestic brewery, microbrewery, distributor, domestic winery, distiller, certificate of approval holder, or importer from furnishing samples of beer, wine, or spirituous liquor to authorized licensees for the purpose of negotiating a sale, in accordance with regulations adopted by the liquor and cannabis board, provided that the samples are subject to taxes imposed by RCW 66.24.290 and 66.24.210.
(3) Nothing in this section prevents a domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, certificate of approval holder, or distributor from furnishing beer, wine, or spirituous liquor for instructional purposes under RCW 66.28.150.
(4) Nothing in this section prevents a domestic winery, certificate of approval holder, or distributor from furnishing wine without charge, subject to the taxes imposed by RCW 66.24.210, to a not-for-profit group organized and operated solely for the purpose of enology or the study of viticulture which has been in existence for at least six months and that uses wine so furnished solely for such educational purposes or a domestic winery, or an out-of-state certificate of approval holder, from furnishing wine without charge or a domestic brewery, or an out-of-state certificate of approval holder, from furnishing beer without charge, subject to the taxes imposed by RCW 66.24.210 or 66.24.290, or a domestic distiller licensed under RCW 66.24.140 or an accredited representative of a distiller, manufacturer, importer, or distributor of spirituous liquor licensed under RCW 66.24.310, from furnishing spirits without charge, to a nonprofit charitable corporation or association exempt from taxation under 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501(c)(3) or (6) of the internal revenue code of 1986 for use consistent with the purpose or purposes entitling it to such exemption.
(5) Nothing in this section prevents a domestic brewery or microbrewery from serving beer without charge, on the brewery premises.
(6) Nothing in this section prevents donations of wine for the purposes of RCW 66.12.180.
(7) Nothing in this section prevents a domestic winery from serving wine without charge, on the winery premises.
(8) Nothing in this section prevents a distillery licensed under RCW 66.24.140 or 66.24.145, or an off-site tasting room authorized under RCW 66.24.146, from providing, without charge, samples of spirits, including spirits adulterated with other alcohol entitled to be served to customers on the distillery premises or at an off-site tasting room.
[ 2020 c 238 s 8; 2016 c 235 s 15; 2014 c 92 s 2; 2012 c 2 s 116 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). Prior: (2011 c 186 s 4 expired December 1, 2012); 2011 c 119 s 207; (2011 c 62 s 4 expired December 1, 2012); 2009 c 373 s 8; prior: 2008 c 94 s 6; 2008 c 41 s 12; 2004 c 160 s 11; 2000 c 179 s 1; prior: 1998 c 256 s 1; 1998 c 126 s 12; 1997 c 39 s 1; 1987 c 452 s 15; 1983 c 13 s 2; 1983 c 3 s 165; 1982 1st ex.s. c 26 s 2; 1981 c 182 s 2; 1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 10; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 7; 1935 c 174 s 4; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 30; RRS s 7306-30. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Spirit sampling—Liquor store pilot project—Expiration date—2011 c 186: See notes following RCW 66.08.050.
Expiration date—2011 c 62: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Construction—Effective dates—1987 c 452: See RCW 15.88.900 and 15.88.901.
Severability—Effective date—1975 1st ex.s. c 173: See notes following RCW 66.08.050.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
A liquor manufacturer, importer, authorized representative holding a certificate of approval, or distributor may provide to licensed retailers and their employees food and beverages for consumption at a meeting at which the primary purpose is the discussion of business, and may provide local ground transportation to and from such meetings. The value of the food, beverage, or transportation provided under this section shall not be considered the advancement of moneys or moneys' worth within the meaning of RCW 66.28.305, nor shall it be considered the giving away of liquor within the meaning of RCW 66.28.040. The board may adopt rules for the implementation of this section.
[ 2011 c 119 s 208; 2004 c 160 s 12; 1990 c 125 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
A liquor manufacturer, importer, authorized representative holding a certificate of approval, or distributor may provide to licensed retailers and their employees tickets or admission fees for athletic events or other forms of entertainment occurring within the state of Washington, if the manufacturer, importer, distributor, authorized representative holding a certificate of approval, or any of their employees accompanies the licensed retailer or its employees to the event. A liquor manufacturer, importer, authorized representative holding a certificate of approval, or distributor may also provide to licensed retailers and their employees food and beverages for consumption at such events, and local ground transportation to and from activities allowed under this section. The value of the food, beverage, transportation, or admission to events provided under this section shall not be considered the advancement of moneys or moneys' worth within the meaning of RCW 66.28.305, nor shall it be considered the giving away of liquor within the meaning of RCW 66.28.040. The board may adopt rules for the implementation of this section.
[ 2011 c 119 s 209; 2004 c 160 s 13; 1990 c 125 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
No person shall canvass for, solicit, receive, or take orders for the purchase or sale of any liquor, or act as representative for the purchase or sale of liquor except as authorized by RCW 66.24.310 or by RCW 66.24.550.
[ 1997 c 321 s 49; 1982 c 85 s 11; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 74 s 2; 1969 ex.s. c 21 s 8; 1937 c 217 s 4; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 42; RRS s 7306-42. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 74: See note following RCW 66.24.310.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 21: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Every distillery licensed under this title must make monthly reports to the board pursuant to the regulations.
[ 2012 c 2 s 117 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2008 c 94 s 7; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 26; RRS s 7306-26. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, it is unlawful for any retail spirits, beer, or wine licensee to purchase spirits, beer, or wine, except from a duly licensed distributor, domestic winery, domestic brewer, or certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement.
(2)(a) A spirits, beer, or wine retailer may purchase spirits, beer, or wine:
(i) From a government agency that has lawfully seized liquor possessed by a licensed distributor or retailer;
(ii) From a board-authorized manufacturer or certificate holder authorized by this title to act as a distributor of liquor;
(iii) From a licensed retailer which has discontinued business if the distributor has refused to accept spirits, beer, or wine from that retailer for return and refund;
(iv) From a retailer whose license or license endorsement permits resale to a retailer of wine and/or spirits for consumption on the premises, if the purchasing retailer is authorized to sell such wine and/or spirits.
(b) Goods purchased under this subsection (2) must meet the quality standards set by the manufacturer of the goods.
(3) Special occasion licensees holding a special occasion license may only purchase spirits, beer, or wine from a spirits, beer, or wine retailer duly licensed to sell spirits, beer, or wine for off-premises consumption, or from a duly licensed spirits, beer, or wine distributor.
[ 2012 c 2 s 118 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2006 c 302 s 8. Prior: 1994 c 201 s 5; 1994 c 63 s 2; 1987 c 205 s 1; 1937 c 217 s 1(23H) (adding new section 23-H to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23H. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—2006 c 302: See note following RCW 66.24.170.
(1) All licensed premises used in the manufacture, storage, or sale of liquor, or any premises or parts of premises used or in any way connected, physically or otherwise, with the licensed business, and/or any premises where a banquet permit has been granted, shall at all times be open to inspection by any liquor enforcement officer, inspector or peace officer.
(2) Every person, being on any such premises and having charge thereof, who refuses or fails to admit a liquor enforcement officer, inspector or peace officer demanding to enter therein in pursuance of this section in the execution of his/her duty, or who obstructs or attempts to obstruct the entry of such liquor enforcement officer, inspector or officer of the peace, or who refuses to allow a liquor enforcement officer, and/or an inspector to examine the books of the licensee, or who refuses or neglects to make any return required by this title or the regulations, shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
[ 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 20; 1935 c 174 s 7; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 52; RRS s 7306-52. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Every person manufacturing spirits as defined in this title shall put upon all packages containing spirits so manufactured a distinctive label, showing the nature of the contents, the name of the person by whom the spirits were manufactured, the place where the spirits were manufactured, and showing the alcoholic content of such spirits. For the purpose of this section the contents of packages containing spirits shall be shown by the use of the words "whiskey", "rum", "brandy", and the like, on the outside of such packages.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 46; RRS s 7306-46. ]
(1) Every person producing, manufacturing, bottling, or distributing wine shall put upon all packages a distinctive label that will provide the consumer with adequate information as to the identity and quality of the product, the alcoholic content thereof, the net contents of the package, the name of the producer, manufacturer, or bottler thereof, and such other information as the board may by rule prescribe.
(2) Subject to subsection (3) of this section:
(a) If the appellation of origin claimed or implied anywhere on a wine label is "Washington," then at least ninety-five percent of the grapes used in the production of the wine must have been grown in Washington.
(b) If the appellation of origin claimed or implied anywhere on a wine label is "Washington" and the name of an American viticultural area located wholly within Washington, then at least ninety-five percent of the grapes used in the production of the wine must have been grown in Washington.
(c) If the appellation of origin claimed or implied anywhere on a wine label is "Washington" and the name of an American viticultural area located within both Washington and an adjoining state, then at least ninety-five percent of the grapes used in the production of the wine must have been grown within the defined boundaries of that American viticultural area or in Washington.
(3) Upon evidence of material damage, destruction, disease, or other loss to one or more vineyards in any American viticultural area, region, subregion, or other discrete area, the director of the department of agriculture must notify the board and the board may suspend the requirements of subsection (2) of this section with respect to the adversely affected area for such period of time as the board reasonably may determine.
(4) For purposes of this section, "American viticultural area" is a delimited grape growing region distinguishable by geographical features, the boundaries of which have been recognized and defined by the federal alcohol and trade tax bureau and recognized by the board.
(5) This section does not apply to wines that are produced with the addition of wine spirits, brandy, or alcohol.
[ 2009 c 404 s 1; 1939 c 172 s 4; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 45; RRS s 7306-45. ]
NOTES:
Application—2009 c 404: "This act applies to wine made from grapes harvested after December 31, 2009." [ 2009 c 404 s 2.]
Every person manufacturing or distributing malt liquor for sale within the state shall put upon all packages containing malt liquor so manufactured or distributed a distinctive label showing the nature of the contents, the name of the person by whom the malt liquor was manufactured, and the place where it was manufactured. For the purpose of this section, the contents of packages containing malt liquor shall be shown by the use of the word "beer," "ale," "malt liquor," "lager," "stout," or "porter," on the outside of the packages.
[ 1997 c 100 s 1; 1982 c 39 s 2; 1961 c 36 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 44; RRS s 7306-44. ]
NOTES:
Severability—1982 c 39: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
It shall not be unlawful for a retail licensee whose premises are open to the general public to sell, supply, or serve liquor to a person for consumption on the licensed retail premises if said person is standing or walking, nor shall it be unlawful for such licensee to permit any said person so standing or walking to consume liquor on such premises: PROVIDED HOWEVER, That the retail licensee of such a premises may, at his or her discretion, promulgate a house rule that no person shall be served nor allowed to consume liquor unless said person is seated.
[ 2012 c 117 s 282; 1969 ex.s. c 112 s 2. ]
(1) An adult member of a household may remove family beer or wine from the home subject to the following conditions:
(a) The quantity removed by a producer is limited to a quantity not exceeding twenty gallons;
(b) Family beer or wine is not removed for sale; and
(c) Family beer or wine is removed from the home for private use, including use at organized affairs, exhibitions, or competitions such as homemaker's contests, tastings, or judging.
(2) As used in this section, "family beer or wine" means beer or wine manufactured in the home for private consumption, and not for sale.
[ 2009 c 360 s 2; 1994 c 201 s 6; 1981 c 255 s 2. ]
A domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, distributor, certificate of approval holder, or its licensed agent may, without charge, instruct licensees and their employees, or conduct courses of instruction for licensees and their employees, including chefs, on the subject of beer, wine, or spirituous liquor, including but not limited to, the history, nature, values, and characteristics of beer, wine, or spirituous liquor, the use of wine lists, and the methods of presenting, serving, storing, and handling beer, wine, or spirituous liquor, and what wines go well with different types of food. The domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, distributor, certificate of approval holder, or its licensed agent may furnish beer, wine, or spirituous liquor and such other equipment, materials, and utensils as may be required for use in connection with the instruction or courses of instruction. The instruction or courses of instruction may be given at the premises of the domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, or authorized representative holding a certificate of approval, at the premises of a retail licensee, or elsewhere within the state of Washington.
[ 2007 c 217 s 2; 2004 c 160 s 14; 1997 c 39 s 2; 1982 1st ex.s. c 26 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
A domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, distributor, certificate of approval holder, or its licensed agent may conduct educational activities or provide product information to the consumer on the licensed premises of a retailer. Information on the subject of wine, beer, or spirituous liquor, including but not limited to, the history, nature, quality, and characteristics of a wine, beer, or spirituous liquor, methods of harvest, production, storage, handling, and distribution of a wine, beer, or spirituous liquor, and the general development of the wine, beer, and spirituous liquor industry may be provided by a domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, distributor, certificate of approval holder, or its licensed agent to the public on the licensed premises of a retailer. The retailer requesting such activity shall attempt to schedule a series of brewery, winery, authorized representative, or distillery and distributor appearances in an effort to equitably represent the industries. Nothing in this section permits a domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, distributor, certificate of approval holder, or its licensed agent to receive compensation or financial benefit from the educational activities or product information presented on the licensed premises of a retailer. The promotional value of such educational activities or product information shall not be considered advancement of moneys or of moneys' worth within the meaning of RCW 66.28.305.
[ 2011 c 119 s 210; 2004 c 160 s 15; 1997 c 39 s 3; 1984 c 196 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
No liquor manufacturer, importer, distributor, retailer, authorized representative holding a certificate of approval, agent thereof, or campus representative of any of the foregoing, may conduct promotional activities for any liquor product on the campus of any college or university nor may any such entities engage in activities that facilitate or promote the consumption of alcoholic beverages by the students of the college or university at which the activity takes place. This section does not prohibit the following:
(1) The sale of alcoholic beverages, by retail licensees on their licensed premises, to persons of legal age and condition to consume alcoholic beverages;
(2) Sponsorship of broadcasting services for events on a college or university campus;
(3) Liquor advertising in campus publications; or
(4) Financial assistance to an activity and acknowledgment of the source of the assistance, if the assistance, activity, and acknowledgment are each approved by the college or university administration.
[ 2004 c 160 s 16; 1985 c 352 s 20. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Severability—1985 c 352: See note following RCW 10.05.010.
It is unlawful for a manufacturer of spirits, wine, or malt beverages holding a certificate of approval or the manufacturer's authorized representative, a distillery, brewery, or a domestic winery to discriminate in price in selling to any purchaser for resale in the state of Washington. Price differentials for sales of spirits or wine based upon competitive conditions, costs of servicing a purchaser's account, efficiencies in handling goods, or other bona fide business factors, to the extent the differentials are not unlawful under trade regulation laws applicable to goods of all kinds, do not violate this section.
[ 2012 c 2 s 119 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2004 c 160 s 17; 1997 c 321 s 50; 1985 c 226 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) Beer and/or wine distributors.
(a) Every beer distributor must maintain at its liquor-licensed location a price list showing the wholesale prices at which any and all brands of beer sold by the distributor are sold to retailers within the state.
(b) Each price list must set forth:
(i) All brands, types, packages, and containers of beer offered for sale by the distributor; and
(ii) The wholesale prices thereof to retail licensees, including allowances, if any, for returned empty containers.
(c) No beer distributor may sell or offer to sell any package or container of beer to any retail licensee at a price differing from the price for such package or container as shown in the price list, according to rules adopted by the board.
(d) Quantity discounts of sales prices of beer are prohibited. No distributor's sale price of beer may be below the distributor's acquisition cost.
(e) Distributor prices below acquisition cost on a "close-out" item are allowed if the item to be discontinued has been listed for a period of at least six months, and upon the further condition that the distributor who offers such a close-out price may not restock the item for a period of one year following the first effective date of such close-out price.
(f) Any beer distributor may sell beer at the distributor's listed prices to any annual or special occasion retail licensee upon presentation to the distributor at the time of purchase or delivery of an original or facsimile license or a special permit issued by the board to such licensee.
(g) Every annual or special occasion retail licensee, upon purchasing any beer from a distributor, must immediately cause such beer to be delivered to the licensed premises, and the licensee may not thereafter permit such beer to be disposed of in any manner except as authorized by the license.
(h) Beer sold as provided in this section must be delivered by the distributor or an authorized employee either to the retailer's licensed premises or directly to the retailer at the distributor's licensed premises. When a brewery, microbrewery, or certificate of approval holder with a direct shipping endorsement is acting as a distributor of beer of its own production, a licensed retailer may contract with a common carrier to obtain the beer directly from the brewery, microbrewery, or certificate of approval holder with a direct shipping endorsement. A distributor's prices to retail licensees for beer must be the same at both such places of delivery. Wine sold to retailers must be delivered to the retailer's licensed premises, to a location specified by the retailer and approved for deliveries by the board, or to a carrier engaged by either party to the transaction.
(2) Beer suppliers' contracts and memoranda.
(a) Every domestic brewery, microbrewery, certificate of approval holder, and beer and/or wine importer offering beer for sale to distributors within the state and any beer distributor who sells to other beer distributors must maintain at its liquor-licensed location a beer price list and a copy of every written contract and a memorandum of every oral agreement which such brewery may have with any beer distributor for the supply of beer, which contracts or memoranda must contain:
(i) All advertising, sales and trade allowances, and incentive programs; and
(ii) All commissions, bonuses or gifts, and any and all other discounts or allowances.
(b) Whenever changed or modified, such revised contracts or memoranda must also be maintained at its liquor licensed location.
(c) Each price list must set forth all brands, types, packages, and containers of beer offered for sale by such supplier.
(d) Prices of a domestic brewery, microbrewery, or certificate of approval holder for beer must be uniform prices to all distributors or retailers on a statewide basis less bona fide allowances for freight differentials. Quantity discounts of suppliers' prices for beer are prohibited. No price may be below the supplier's acquisition or production cost.
(e) A domestic brewery, microbrewery, certificate of approval holder, importer, or distributor acting as a supplier to another distributor must file with the board a list of all distributor licensees of the board to which it sells or offers to sell beer.
(f) No domestic brewery, microbrewery, or certificate of approval holder may sell or offer to sell any package or container of beer to any distributor at a price differing from the price list for such package or container as shown in the price list of the domestic brewery, microbrewery, or certificate of approval holder and then in effect, according to rules adopted by the board.
(3) In selling wine to another retailer, to the extent consistent with the purposes of chapter 2, Laws of 2012, a grocery store licensee with a reseller endorsement must comply with all provisions of and regulations under this title applicable to wholesale distributors selling wine to retailers.
(4) With respect to any alleged violation of this title by sale of wine at a discounted price, all defenses under applicable trade regulation laws are available including, without limitation, good faith meeting of a competitor's lawful price and absence of harm to competition.
[ 2012 c 2 s 121 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2009 c 506 s 10; 2006 c 302 s 10; (2006 c 302 s 9 expired July 1, 2006); 2005 c 274 s 327. Prior: 2004 c 269 s 1; 2004 c 160 s 18; 1997 c 321 s 51; 1995 c 232 s 10; 1985 c 226 s 4. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—2006 c 302 ss 10 and 12: "Sections 10 and 12 of this act take effect July 1, 2006." [ 2006 c 302 s 15.]
Expiration date—2006 c 302 ss 9 and 11: "Sections 9 and 11 of this act expire July 1, 2006." [ 2007 c 9 s 1; 2006 c 302 s 14.]
Effective date—2004 c 269: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 31, 2004]." [ 2004 c 269 s 2.]
Effective date—2004 c 160: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) A person holding a spirits distributor license issued pursuant to RCW 66.24.055 may sell spirits directly to bona fide, full-time employees, subject to the following requirements:
(a) No spirits may be sold under this section unless they are in such condition that they cannot reasonably be sold in the normal course of business, such as, for example, because of damage to the labels on individual bottles;
(b) No spirits may be sold under this section for less than the spirits distributor licensee's cost of acquisition;
(c) All sales of spirits made under this section are subject to the license issuance fee established by RCW 66.24.630(4) and the taxes imposed on a retail sale under RCW 82.08.150;
(d) No spirits may be sold under this section to a person who has been employed by the spirits distributor licensee for less than ninety days at the time of the sale or who is under the age of twenty-one;
(e) No person purchasing spirits under this section may sell such spirits by the drink or otherwise to a third person, or otherwise dispose of all or any part of such spirits in any manner or for any purpose other than personal use; and
(f) No spirits may be sold under this section by a person holding any license other than a spirits distributor license, whether or not the license held by such person permits the sale of spirits to consumers.
(2) A person holding a wine distributor license issued pursuant to RCW 66.24.200 may sell wine directly to bona fide, full-time employees, subject to the following requirements:
(a) No wine may be sold under this section unless it is in such condition that it cannot reasonably be sold in the normal course of business, such as, for example, because of damage to the labels on individual bottles;
(b) No wine may be sold under this section for less than the wine distributor licensee's cost of acquisition;
(c) All sales of wine made under this section are subject to the same taxes that would be applicable if the sale were made to a consumer;
(d) No wine may be sold under this section to a person who has been employed by the wine distributor licensee for less than ninety days at the time of the sale or who is under the age of twenty-one;
(e) No person purchasing wine under this section may sell such wine by the glass or otherwise to a third person, or otherwise dispose of all or any part of such wine in any manner or for any purpose other than personal use; and
(f) No wine may be sold under this section by a person holding any license other than a wine distributor license, whether or not the license held by such person permits the sale of wine to consumers.
[ 2017 c 160 s 1. ]
(1) Any other provision of this title notwithstanding, persons licensed under this title to sell liquor for resale may sell at wholesale nonliquor food and food ingredients on thirty-day credit terms to persons licensed as retailers under this title, but complete and separate accounting records must be maintained on all sales of nonliquor food and food ingredients to ensure that such persons are in compliance with this title.
(2) For the purpose of this section, "nonliquor food and food ingredients" includes, without limitation, all food and food ingredients for human consumption as defined in RCW 82.08.0293 as it existed on July 1, 2004.
[ 2012 c 2 s 122 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2011 c 119 s 211; 2003 c 168 s 305; 1997 c 321 s 52; 1988 c 50 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2011 c 119 s 211 and by 2012 c 2 s 122, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective dates—Part headings not law—2003 c 168: See notes following RCW 82.08.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
(1) Licensees holding a beer and/or wine restaurant or a tavern license in combination with an off-premises beer and wine retailer's license, licensees holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license with an endorsement issued under RCW 66.24.400(4), and licensees holding a beer and/or wine specialty shop license with an endorsement issued under RCW 66.24.371(1) may sell malt liquor in kegs or other containers capable of holding four gallons or more of liquid. Under a special endorsement from the board, a grocery store licensee may sell malt liquor in containers no larger than five and one-half gallons. The sale of any container holding four gallons or more must comply with the provisions of this section and RCW 66.28.210 through 66.28.240.
(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, any person who sells or offers for sale the contents of kegs or other containers containing four gallons or more of malt liquor, or leases kegs or other containers that will hold four gallons of malt liquor, to consumers who are not licensed under chapter 66.24 RCW shall do the following for any transaction involving the container:
(a) Require the purchaser of the malt liquor to sign a declaration and receipt for the keg or other container or beverage in substantially the form provided in RCW 66.28.220;
(b) Require the purchaser to provide one piece of identification pursuant to *RCW 66.16.040;
(c) Require the purchaser to sign a sworn statement, under penalty of perjury, that:
(i) The purchaser is of legal age to purchase, possess, or use malt liquor;
(ii) The purchaser will not allow any person under the age of twenty-one years to consume the beverage except as provided by RCW 66.44.270;
(iii) The purchaser will not remove, obliterate, or allow to be removed or obliterated, the identification required under RCW 66.28.220 to be affixed to the container;
(d) Require the purchaser to state the particular address where the malt liquor will be consumed, or the particular address where the keg or other container will be physically located; and
(e) Require the purchaser to maintain a copy of the declaration and receipt next to or adjacent to the keg or other container, in no event a distance greater than five feet, and visible without a physical barrier from the keg, during the time that the keg or other container is in the purchaser's possession or control.
(3) Domestic breweries licensed under RCW 66.24.240 and microbreweries licensed under RCW 66.24.244 are not subject to this section when selling or offering for sale kegs or other containers containing four gallons or more of malt liquor of the licensee's own production, or when selling, offering for sale, or leasing kegs or other containers that will hold four gallons or more of liquid.
(4) A violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor.
[ 2020 c 230 s 3; 2009 c 373 s 7; 2007 c 53 s 2; 2003 c 53 s 296; 1998 c 126 s 13; 1997 c 321 s 38; 1993 c 21 s 2; 1989 c 271 s 229. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 66.16.040 was repealed by 2012 c 2 s 215 (Initiative Measure No. 1183).
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective dates—1989 c 271: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately, except:
(1) Sections 502 and 504 of this act shall take effect June 1, 1989; and
(2) Sections 229 through 233, 501, 503, and 505 through 509 of this act shall take effect July 1, 1989." [ 1989 c 271 s 607.]
Severability—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, any person who purchases the contents of kegs or other containers containing four gallons or more of malt liquor, or purchases or leases the container shall:
(a) Sign a declaration and receipt for the keg or other container or beverage in substantially the form provided in RCW 66.28.220;
(b) Provide one piece of identification pursuant to *RCW 66.16.040;
(c) Be of legal age to purchase, possess, or use malt liquor;
(d) Not allow any person under the age of twenty-one to consume the beverage except as provided by RCW 66.44.270;
(e) Not remove, obliterate, or allow to be removed or obliterated, the identification required under rules adopted by the board;
(f) Not move, keep, or store the keg or its contents, except for transporting to and from the distributor, at any place other than that particular address declared on the receipt and declaration; and
(g) Maintain a copy of the declaration and receipt next to or adjacent to the keg or other container, in no event a distance greater than five feet, and visible without a physical barrier from the keg, during the time that the keg or other container is in the purchaser's possession or control.
(2) A person who purchases the contents of a keg or other container containing four gallons or more of malt liquor from a domestic brewery licensed under RCW 66.24.240 or a microbrewery licensed under RCW 66.24.244, or who purchases or leases a keg or other container that will hold four gallons or more of liquid from such a domestic brewery or microbrewery, is not subject to this section except for the requirements in subsection (1)(c) and (d) of this section.
(3) A violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor.
[ 2020 c 230 s 4; 2003 c 53 s 297; 1989 c 271 s 230. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 66.16.040 was repealed by 2012 c 2 s 215 (Initiative Measure No. 1183).
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective dates—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 66.28.200.
Severability—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.
(1) The board shall adopt rules requiring retail licensees to affix appropriate identification on all containers of four gallons or more of malt liquor for the purpose of tracing the purchasers of such containers. The rules may provide for identification to be done on a statewide basis or on the basis of smaller geographical areas. The rules do not apply to sales by domestic breweries and microbreweries of malt liquor of the licensee's own production in kegs or other containers containing four gallons or more of malt liquor, or to sales or leases by domestic breweries and microbreweries of kegs or containers that will hold four or more gallons of liquid.
(2) The board shall develop and make available forms for the declaration and receipt required by RCW 66.28.200. The board may charge spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensees with an endorsement issued under RCW 66.24.400(4) and grocery store licensees for the costs of providing the forms and that money collected for the forms shall be deposited into the liquor revolving fund for use by the board, without further appropriation, to continue to administer the cost of the keg registration program.
(3) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, it is unlawful for any person to sell or offer for sale kegs or other containers containing four gallons or more of malt liquor to consumers who are not licensed under chapter 66.24 RCW if the kegs or containers are not identified in compliance with rules adopted by the board.
(4) In accordance with *RCW 66.24.200, sales by domestic breweries and microbreweries of malt liquor of the licensee's own production in kegs or other containers containing four gallons or more of malt liquor are not subject to the keg and container identification requirements in this section or the board's rules.
(5) A violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor.
[ 2020 c 230 s 5; 2007 c 53 s 3; 2003 c 53 s 298; 1999 c 281 s 7; 1993 c 21 s 3; 1989 c 271 s 231. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The reference to RCW 66.24.200 appears to be erroneous. RCW 66.28.200 was apparently intended.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective dates—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 66.28.200.
Severability—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.
Except as provided in RCW 66.44.270, a person who intentionally furnishes a keg or other container containing four or more gallons of malt liquor to a person under the age of twenty-one years is guilty of a gross misdemeanor punishable under RCW 9.92.020.
[ 1999 c 189 s 1; 1989 c 271 s 232. ]
NOTES:
Application—1999 c 189: "This act applies to crimes committed on or after July 25, 1999." [ 1999 c 189 s 5.]
Effective dates—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 66.28.200.
Severability—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.
The state of Washington fully occupies and preempts the entire field of keg registration. Cities, towns, and counties or other municipalities may enact only those laws and ordinances relating to keg registration that are consistent with this chapter. Such local ordinances shall have the same or lesser penalties as provided for by state law. Local laws and ordinances that are inconsistent with, more restrictive than, or exceed the requirements of state law shall not be enacted and are preempted and repealed, regardless of the nature of the code, charter, or home rule status of the city, town, county, or municipality.
[ 1989 c 271 s 233. ]
NOTES:
Effective dates—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 66.28.200.
Severability—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.
Licensed beer distributors may not buy or sell beer, for purposes of distribution, at farmers market locations authorized by the board pursuant to chapter 154, Laws of 2003.
[ 2003 c 154 s 3. ]
(1) Nothing in this chapter prohibits the use of checks, credit or debit cards, prepaid accounts, electronic funds transfers, and other similar methods as approved by the board, as cash payments for purposes of this title. Electronic funds transfers must be: (a) Voluntary; (b) conducted pursuant to a prior written agreement of the parties that includes a provision that the purchase be initiated by an irrevocable invoice or sale order before the time of delivery; (c) initiated by the retailer, manufacturer, importer, or distributor no later than the first business day following delivery; and (d) completed as promptly as is reasonably practical, and in no event later than five business days following delivery.
(2) Any person licensed as a distributor of beer, spirits, and/or wine may pass credit card fees on to a purchaser licensed to sell beer, spirits, and/or wine for consumption on the licensed premises, if the decision to use a credit card is entirely voluntary and the credit card fees are set out as a separate line item on the distributor's invoice. Nothing in this section requires the use of a credit card by any licensee. In establishing the fees to be passed on as authorized in this section a distributor must use the same method of determining or calculating such fees for all customers who elect to use a credit card when accepting delivery of beer, spirits and/or wine. The aggregate of all credit card fees passed on to customers by a distributor as authorized under this section during a calendar month, or such longer time as may be established by the board, may not exceed the aggregate of the fees imposed on that distributor by credit card issuers during that same time period.
[ 2017 c 190 s 1; 2009 c 373 s 11. ]
The legislature recognizes that the historical total prohibition on ownership of an interest in one tier by a person with an ownership interest in another tier, as well as the historical restriction on financial incentives and business relationships between tiers, is unduly restrictive. The legislature finds the provisions of RCW 66.28.285 through 66.28.320 appropriate for all varieties of liquor, because they do not impermissibly interfere with protecting the public interest and advancing public safety by preventing the use and consumption of alcohol by minors and other abusive consumption, and promoting the efficient collection of taxes by the state.
[ 2012 c 2 s 124 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2009 c 506 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
The definitions in this section apply throughout RCW 66.28.280 through 66.28.315 unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Adverse impact on public health and safety" means that an existing or proposed practice or occurrence has resulted or is more likely than not to result in alcohol being made significantly more attractive or available to minors than would otherwise be the case or has resulted or is more likely than not to result in overconsumption, consumption by minors, or other harmful or abusive forms of consumption.
(2) "Affiliate" means any one of two or more persons if one of those persons has actual or legal control, directly or indirectly, whether by stock ownership or otherwise, of the other person or persons and any one of two or more persons subject to common control, actual or legal, directly or indirectly, whether by stock ownership or otherwise.
(3) "Industry member" means a licensed manufacturer, producer, supplier, importer, wholesaler, distributor, authorized representative, certificate of approval holder, warehouse, and any affiliates, subsidiaries, officers, directors, partners, agents, employees, and representatives of any industry member. "Industry member" does not include the board or any of the board's employees.
(4) "Person" means any individual, partnership, joint stock company, business trust, association, corporation, or other form of business enterprise, including a receiver, trustee, or liquidating agent and includes any officer or employee of a retailer or industry member.
(5) "Retailer" means the holder of a license issued by the board to allow for the sale of alcoholic beverages to consumers for consumption on or off premises and any of the retailer's agents, officers, directors, shareholders, partners, or employees. "Retailer" does not include the board or any of the board's employees.
(6) "Undue influence" means one retailer or industry member directly or indirectly influencing the purchasing, marketing, or sales decisions of another retailer or industry member by any agreement written or unwritten or any other business practices or arrangements such as but not limited to the following:
(a) Any form of coercion between industry members and retailers or between retailers and industry members through acts or threats of physical or economic harm, including threat of loss of supply or threat of curtailment of purchase;
(b) A retailer on an involuntary basis purchasing less than it would have of another industry member's product;
(c) Purchases made by a retailer or industry member as a prerequisite for purchase of other items;
(d) A retailer purchasing a specific or minimum quantity or type of a product or products from an industry member;
(e) An industry member requiring a retailer to take and dispose of a certain product type or quota of the industry member's products;
(f) A retailer having a continuing obligation to purchase or otherwise promote or display an industry member's product;
(g) An industry member having a continuing obligation to sell a product to a retailer;
(h) A retailer having a commitment not to terminate its relationship with an industry member with respect to purchase of the industry member's products or an industry member having a commitment not to terminate its relationship with a retailer with respect to the sale of a particular product or products;
(i) An industry member being involved in the day-to-day operations of a retailer or a retailer being involved in the day-to-day operations of an industry member in a manner that violates the provisions of this section;
(j) Discriminatory pricing practices as prohibited by law or other practices that are discriminatory in that product is not offered to all retailers in the local market on the same terms.
[ 2009 c 506 s 2. ]
(1) Notwithstanding any prohibitions and restrictions contained in this title, it shall be lawful for an industry member or affiliate to have a direct or indirect financial interest in another industry member or a retailer, and for a retailer or affiliate to have a direct or indirect financial interest in an industry member unless such interest has resulted or is more likely than not to result in undue influence over the retailer or the industry member or has resulted or is more likely than not to result in an adverse impact on public health and safety. The structure of any such financial interest must be consistent with subsection (2) of this section.
(2) Subject to subsection (1) of this section and except as provided in RCW 66.28.295:
(a) An industry member in whose name a license or certificate of approval has been issued pursuant to this title may wholly own or hold a financial interest in a separate legal entity licensed pursuant to RCW 66.24.320, 66.24.330, 66.24.350, 66.24.360, 66.24.371, 66.24.380, 66.24.395, 66.24.400, 66.24.425, 66.24.452, 66.24.495, 66.24.540, 66.24.550, 66.24.570, * 66.24.580, 66.24.590, 66.24.600, and 66.24.610, but may not have such a license issued in its name; and
(b) A retailer in whose name a license has been issued pursuant to this title may wholly own or hold a financial interest in a separate legal entity licensed or holding a certificate of approval pursuant to RCW 66.24.140, 66.24.170, 66.24.206, 66.24.240, 66.24.244, 66.24.270(2), 66.24.200, or 66.24.250, but may not have such a license or certificate of approval issued in its name; and
(c) A supplier in whose name a license or certificate of approval has been issued pursuant to this title may wholly own or hold a financial interest in a separate legal entity licensed as a distributor or importer under this title, but such supplier may not have a license as a distributor or importer issued in its own name; and
(d) A distributor or importer in whose name a license has been issued pursuant to this title may wholly own or hold a financial interest in a separate legal entity licensed or holding a certificate of approval as a supplier under this title, but such distributor or importer may not have a license or certificate of approval as a supplier issued in its own name.
[ 2011 c 325 s 6; 2011 c 119 s 202; 2009 c 506 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: *(1) RCW 66.24.580 was repealed by 2025 c 167 s 5.
(2) This section was amended by 2011 c 119 s 202 and by 2011 c 325 s 6, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Nothing in RCW 66.28.290 shall prohibit:
(1) A licensed domestic brewery or microbrewery from being licensed as a retailer pursuant to chapter 66.24 RCW for the purpose of selling beer or wine at retail on the brewery premises and at one additional off-site retail only location.
(2) A domestic winery from being licensed as a retailer pursuant to chapter 66.24 RCW for the purpose of selling beer or wine at retail on the winery premises. Such beer and wine so sold at retail shall be subject to the taxes imposed by RCW 66.24.290 and 66.24.210 and to reporting and bonding requirements as prescribed by regulations adopted by the board pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW, and beer and wine that is not produced by the brewery or winery shall be purchased from a licensed beer or wine distributor.
(3) A microbrewery holding a beer and/or wine restaurant license under RCW 66.24.320 from holding the same privileges and endorsements attached to the beer and/or wine restaurant license.
(4) A licensed craft distillery from selling spirits of its own production under RCW 66.24.145.
(5) A licensed distiller, domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, or a lessee of a licensed domestic brewer, microbrewery, or domestic winery, from being licensed as a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant pursuant to chapter 66.24 RCW for the purpose of selling liquor at a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant premises on the property on which the primary manufacturing facility of the licensed distiller, domestic brewer, microbrewery, or domestic winery is located or on contiguous property owned or leased by the licensed distiller, domestic brewer, microbrewery, or domestic winery as prescribed by rules adopted by the board pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW.
(6) A microbrewery holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license under RCW 66.24.420 from holding the same privileges and endorsements attached to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license.
(7) A brewery or microbrewery holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license or a beer and/or wine license under chapter 66.24 RCW operated on the premises of the brewery or microbrewery from holding a second retail only license at a location separate from the premises of the brewery or microbrewery.
(8) Retail licensees with a caterer's endorsement issued under RCW 66.24.320 or 66.24.420 from operating on a domestic winery premises.
(9) An organization qualifying under RCW 66.24.375 formed for the purpose of constructing and operating a facility to promote Washington wines from holding retail licenses on the facility property or leasing all or any portion of such facility property to a retail licensee on the facility property if the members of the board of directors or officers of the board for the organization include officers, directors, owners, or employees of a licensed domestic winery. Financing for the construction of the facility must include both public and private money.
(10) A bona fide charitable nonprofit society or association registered under Title 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code, or a local wine industry association registered under Title 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501(c)(6) of the federal internal revenue code as it existed on July 22, 2007, and having an officer, director, owner, or employee of a licensed domestic winery or a wine certificate of approval holder on its board of directors from holding a special occasion license under RCW 66.24.380.
(11) A person licensed pursuant to RCW 66.24.170, 66.24.240, or 66.24.244 from exercising the privileges of distributing and selling at retail such person's own production or from exercising any other right or privilege that attaches to such license.
(12) A person holding a certificate of approval pursuant to RCW 66.24.206 from obtaining an endorsement to act as a distributor of their own product or from shipping their own product directly to consumers as authorized by RCW 66.20.360.
(13) A person holding a wine shipper's permit pursuant to RCW 66.20.375 from shipping their own product directly to consumers.
(14) A person holding a certificate of approval pursuant to RCW 66.24.270(2) from obtaining an endorsement to act as a distributor of their own product.
(15) A domestic winery and a restaurant licensed under RCW 66.24.320 or 66.24.400 from entering an arrangement to waive a corkage fee.
(16) A person holding a domestic brewery license, microbrewery license, domestic winery license, distiller license, craft distillery license, or manufacturer's license, from operating a premises in a facility at which a person holding a retail liquor license also operates in a separate space, which facility may be owned by any such licensee and space leased to other such licensees consistent with RCW 66.24.010(13).
[ 2026 c 196 s 2; 2011 c 66 s 2; 2009 c 506 s 4. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—2011 c 66: "The legislature finds that some restaurants allow patrons to bring bottles of wine to the restaurant so long as restaurant personnel open and serve the beverage. In these cases, the restaurants often charge a fee known as a corkage fee. The legislature supports activities in the free market that facilitate local businesses in selling their products. One of the methods restaurants and wineries have found to be mutually beneficial is a waiver of corkage fees for local businesses. The legislature intends to allow wineries and restaurants the ability to make agreements as to whether to charge a corkage fee without restriction or regulation under the tied-house laws." [ 2011 c 66 s 1.]
Any industry member or retailer or any other person seeking a determination by the board as to whether a proposed or existing financial interest has resulted or is more likely than not to result in undue influence or has resulted or is more likely than not to result in an adverse impact on public health and safety may file a complaint or request for determination with the board. Upon receipt of a request or complaint the board may conduct such investigation as it deems appropriate in the circumstances. If the investigation reveals the financial interest has resulted or is more likely than not to result in undue influence or has resulted or is more likely than not to result in an adverse impact on public health and safety the board may issue an administrative violation notice or a notice of intent to deny the license to the industry member, to the retailer, or both. If the financial interest was acquired through a transaction that has already been consummated when the board issues its administrative violation notice, the board shall have the authority to require that the transaction be rescinded or otherwise undone. The recipient of the administrative notice of violation or notice of intent to deny the license may request a hearing under chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 2009 c 506 s 5. ]
Except as provided in RCW 66.28.310, no industry member shall advance and no retailer shall receive moneys or moneys' worth under an agreement written or unwritten or by means of any other business practice or arrangement.
[ 2009 c 506 s 6. ]
(1)(a) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits an industry member from providing retailers, including common carriers licensed under RCW 66.24.395, branded promotional items which are of nominal value, singly or in the aggregate. Such items include but are not limited to: Trays, lighters, blotters, postcards, pencils, coasters, menu cards, meal checks, napkins, clocks, mugs, glasses, bottles or can openers, corkscrews, matches, printed recipes, shirts, hats, visors, and other similar items. Branded promotional items:
(i) Must be used exclusively by the retailer, including common carriers licensed under RCW 66.24.395, or its employees in a manner consistent with its license;
(ii) Must bear imprinted advertising matter of the industry member only, except imprinted advertising matter of the industry member can include the logo of a professional sports team which the industry member is licensed to use;
(iii) May be provided by industry members to: (A) Common carriers licensed under RCW 66.24.395 for use by their employees or ticketed passengers; or (B) retailers, other than common carriers licensed under RCW 66.24.395, and their employees and may not be provided by or through retailers or their employees to retail customers; and
(iv) May not be targeted to or appeal principally to youth.
(b) An industry member is not obligated to provide any such branded promotional items, and a retailer, including common carriers licensed under RCW 66.24.395, may not require an industry member to provide such branded promotional items as a condition for selling any alcohol to the retailer, including common carriers licensed under RCW 66.24.395.
(c) Any industry member or retailer or any other person asserting that the provision of branded promotional items as allowed in (a) of this subsection has resulted or is more likely than not to result in undue influence or an adverse impact on public health and safety, or is otherwise inconsistent with the criteria in (a) of this subsection may file a complaint with the board. Upon receipt of a complaint the board may conduct such investigation as it deems appropriate in the circumstances. If the investigation reveals the provision of branded promotional items has resulted in or is more likely than not to result in undue influence or has resulted or is more likely than not to result in an adverse impact on public health and safety or is otherwise inconsistent with (a) of this subsection the board may issue an administrative violation notice to the industry member, to the retailer, or both. The recipient of the administrative violation notice may request a hearing under chapter 34.05 RCW.
(2) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits:
(a) An industry member from providing to a special occasion licensee and a special occasion licensee from receiving services for:
(i) Installation of draft beer dispensing equipment or advertising;
(ii) Advertising, pouring, or dispensing of beer or wine at a beer or wine tasting exhibition or judging event; or
(iii) Pouring or dispensing of spirits by a licensed domestic distiller or the accredited representative of a distiller, manufacturer, importer, or distributor of spirituous liquor licensed under RCW 66.24.310; or
(b) Special occasion licensees from paying for beer, wine, or spirits immediately following the end of the special occasion event; or
(c) Wineries, breweries, or distilleries that are participating in a special occasion event from paying reasonable booth fees to the special occasion licensee.
(3) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits industry members from performing, and retailers from accepting the service of building, rotating, and restocking displays and stockroom inventories; rotating and rearranging can and bottle displays of their own products; providing point of sale material and brand signs; pricing case goods of their own brands; and performing such similar business services consistent with board rules, or personal services as described in subsection (5) of this section.
(4) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits:
(a) Industry members from listing on their internet websites information related to retailers who sell or promote their products, including direct links to the retailers' internet websites;
(b) Retailers from listing on their internet websites information related to industry members whose products those retailers sell or promote, including direct links to the industry members' websites;
(c) Manufacturers, distributors, or their licensed representatives from using websites or social media accounts in their name to post, repost, or share promotional information or images about events featuring a product of the manufacturer's own production or a product sold by the distributor, held at an on-premises licensed liquor retailer's location or a licensed special occasion event. The promotional information may include links to purchase event tickets. Manufacturers, distributors, or their licensed representatives may not pay a third party to enhance viewership of a specific post. Industry members, or their licensed representatives, are not obligated to post, repost, or share information or images on a website or on social media. A licensed liquor retailer may not require an industry member or their licensed representative to post, repost, or share information or images on a website or on social media as a condition for selling any alcohol to the retailer or participating in a retailer's event; or
(d) Industry members and retailers from producing, jointly or together with regional, state, or local industry associations, brochures and materials promoting tourism in Washington state which contain information regarding retail licensees, industry members, and their products.
(5) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits the performance of personal services offered from time to time by a domestic winery or certificate of approval holder to retailers, including common carriers licensed under RCW 66.24.395, when the personal services are (a) conducted at a licensed premises, and (b) intended to inform, educate, or enhance customers' knowledge or experience of the manufacturer's products. The performance of personal services may include participation and pouring, bottle signing events, and other similar informational or educational activities at the premises of a retailer holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, a wine and/or beer restaurant license, a specialty wine shop license, a special occasion license, a grocery store license with a tasting endorsement, a common carrier license under RCW 66.24.395, or a private club license. A domestic winery or certificate of approval holder is not obligated to perform any such personal services, and a retail licensee, including common carrier licensees under RCW 66.24.395, may not require a domestic winery or certificate of approval holder to conduct any personal service as a condition for selling any alcohol to the retail licensee, or as a condition for including any product of the domestic winery or certificate of approval holder in any tasting conducted by the licensee. Except as provided in RCW 66.28.150, the cost of sampling may not be borne, directly or indirectly, by any domestic winery or certificate of approval holder or any distributor. Nothing in this section prohibits wineries, breweries, microbreweries, certificate of approval holders, and retail licensees from identifying the producers on private labels authorized under RCW 66.24.400, 66.24.425, 66.24.450, 66.24.360, and 66.24.371.
(6) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits an industry member from entering into an arrangement with any holder of a sports entertainment facility license or an affiliated business for brand advertising at the licensed facility or promoting events held at the sports entertainment facility as authorized under RCW 66.24.570.
(7) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits the performance of personal services offered from time to time by a domestic brewery, microbrewery, or beer certificate of approval holder to grocery store licensees with a tasting endorsement, or common carrier licensees under RCW 66.24.395, when the personal services are (a) conducted at a licensed premises in conjunction with a tasting event, and (b) intended to inform, educate, or enhance customers' knowledge or experience of the manufacturer's products. The performance of personal services may include participation and pouring, bottle signing events, and other similar informational or educational activities. A domestic brewery, microbrewery, or beer certificate of approval holder is not obligated to perform any such personal services, and a grocery store licensee may not require the performance of any personal service as a condition for including any product in any tasting conducted by the licensee.
(8) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits an arrangement between a domestic winery and a restaurant licensed under RCW 66.24.320 or 66.24.400 to waive a corkage fee.
(9) Nothing in this section prohibits professional sports teams who hold a retail liquor license or their agents from accepting bona fide liquor advertising from manufacturers, importers, distributors, or their agents for use in the sporting arena. Professional sports teams who hold a retail liquor license or their agents may license the manufacturer, importer, distributor, or their agents to use the name and trademarks of the professional sports team in their advertising and promotions, under the following conditions:
(a) Such advertising must be paid for by said manufacturer, importer, distributor, or their agent at the published advertising rate or at a reasonable fair market value.
(b) Such advertising may carry with it no express or implied offer on the part of the manufacturer, importer, distributor, or their agent, or promise on the part of the retail licensee whose operation is directly or indirectly part of the sporting arena, to stock or list any particular brand of liquor to the total or partial exclusion of any other brand.
(10) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits a licensed domestic brewery or microbrewery from providing branded promotional items which are of nominal value, singly or in the aggregate, to a nonprofit charitable corporation or association exempt from taxation under 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501(c)(3) of the internal revenue code as it existed on July 24, 2015, for use consistent with the purpose or purposes entitling it to such exemption.
(11) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits a common carrier licensed under RCW 66.24.395 from:
(a) Transporting liquor without charge or at a discounted rate when the liquor was purchased by a ticketed passenger and is not intended to be sold for resale;
(b) Displaying or distributing information about an industry member, provided the industry member did not pay the common carrier to have the information displayed or distributed;
(c) Sponsoring any public or private event including those hosted by or otherwise affiliated with an industry member;
(d) Engaging in joint promotional activities with an industry member, provided the industry member does not pay the common carrier or a third party to participate in the joint promotional activity and any branded promotional items provided by the industry member are of nominal value;
(e) Accepting payment from an industry member for advertising, provided:
(i) The advertising appears in a publication produced and distributed to passengers of the common carrier;
(ii) The amount of the payment is consistent with the advertising rates paid by other advertisers purchasing similar advertisements in the same publication; and
(iii) The payment is not used as an inducement to purchase the products of the industry member paying for the advertising nor does it result in the exclusion of products of other industry members.
(12) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits an industry member, subject to the requirements of its license, from entering into an agreement to provide tastings with or without charge to passengers of a common carrier holding a license under RCW 66.24.395.
(13) Nothing in RCW 66.28.305 prohibits a distillery, craft distillery, or spirits certificate of approval holder from providing branded promotional items of nominal value, singly or in the aggregate, to a nonprofit charitable corporation or association exempt from taxation under Title 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code of 1986, as amended, as of January 1, 2021, for use consistent with the purpose or purposes entitling it to such exemption.
[ 2020 c 238 s 10; 2020 c 200 s 1; 2019 c 149 s 1; 2015 c 94 s 1; 2014 c 92 s 5; 2013 c 107 s 1. Prior: 2011 c 119 s 101; 2011 c 66 s 3; prior: 2010 c 290 s 3; 2010 c 141 s 4; 2009 c 506 s 7. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2020 c 200 s 1 and by 2020 c 238 s 10, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Effective date—2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10: See note following RCW 66.24.146.
Finding—Intent—2011 c 66: See note following RCW 66.28.295.
All industry members and retailers shall keep and maintain the following records on their premises for a three-year period:
(1) Records of all items, services, and moneys' worth furnished to and received by a retailer and of all items, services, and moneys' worth provided to a retailer and purchased by a retailer at fair market value; and
(2) Records of all industry member financial ownership or interests in a retailer and of all retailer financial ownership interests in an industry member.
[ 2009 c 506 s 8. ]
The board shall adopt rules as are deemed necessary to carry out the purposes and provisions of this chapter in accordance with the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 2009 c 506 s 9. ]
(1) No price for spirits sold in the state by a distributor or other licensee acting as a distributor pursuant to this title may be below acquisition cost unless the item sold below acquisition cost has been stocked by the seller for a period of at least six months. The seller may not restock the item for a period of one year following the first effective date of such below cost price.
(2) Spirits sold to retailers for resale for consumption on or off the licensed premises may be delivered to the retailer's licensed premises, to a location specified by the retailer and approved for deliveries by the board, or to a carrier engaged by either party to the transaction.
(3) In selling spirits to another retailer, to the extent consistent with the purposes of chapter 2, Laws of 2012, a spirits retail licensee must comply with all provisions of and regulations under this title applicable to wholesale distributors selling spirits to retailers.
(4) A distiller holding a license or certificate of compliance as a distiller under this title may act as distributor in the state of spirits of its own production or of foreign-produced spirits it is entitled to import. The distiller must, to the extent consistent with the purposes of chapter 2, Laws of 2012, comply with all provisions of and regulations under this title applicable to wholesale distributors selling spirits to retailers.
(5) With respect to any alleged violation of this title by sale of spirits at a discounted price, all defenses under applicable trade regulation laws are available, including without limitation good faith meeting of a competitor's lawful price and absence of harm to competition.
(6) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no licensee may import, purchase, distribute, or accept delivery of any wine that is produced outside of the United States or any distilled spirits without the written consent of the brand owner or its authorized agent.
[ 2012 c 2 s 120 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
(1) A retailer authorized to sell wine may accept delivery of wine at its licensed premises or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, and from which it may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted by this title, to other licensed retailers, to other registered facilities, or to lawful purchasers outside the state; such facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of retailers including at least one retailer licensed to sell wine. A restaurant retailer authorized to sell spirits may accept delivery of spirits at its licensed premises or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, from which it may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted by this title, to other licensed retailers, to other registered facilities, or to lawful purchasers outside the state; such facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of retailers including at least one restaurant retailer licensed to sell spirits. Nothing in this section authorizes sales of spirits or wine by a retailer holding only an on-sale privilege to another retailer.
(2) A retailer authorized to sell both wine and spirits for consumption off the licensed premises may accept delivery of wine and spirits at its licensed premises, at another licensed premises as designated by the retailer, or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, and from which it may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted by this title, to other licensed retailers, to other registered facilities, or to lawful purchasers outside the state. Such warehouse facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of retailers including at least one retailer licensed to sell both spirits and wine. For purposes of negotiating volume discounts, a group of individual retailers authorized to sell both wine and spirits for consumption off the licensed premises may accept delivery of wine and spirits at a single location, which may be their individual licensed premises or at any one of the individual licensee's premises, or at a warehouse facility registered with the board.
[ 2016 c 190 s 2; 2012 c 2 s 123 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011). ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
(1) Subject to the procedural requirements of subsection (3) of this section, the board is authorized to regulate spirits retailers licensed under RCW 66.24.630 for the purpose of reducing the theft of spirits from the premises of such retailers. The authority of the board to implement the regulatory measures set forth in this section requires a finding by the board that a licensee is experiencing an unacceptable rate of spirits theft from its premises. For the purposes of this section, "unacceptable rate of spirits theft" means two or more thefts of spirits from a licensee in a six-month period and that result in a minor unlawfully using or gaining possession of spirits, or that involves, or results in, adults unlawfully providing spirits to minors, and where such thefts result in an incident report being generated by a law enforcement agency.
(2) The regulatory measures that may be considered and implemented under this section may require the imposition of one or more of the following requirements on licensees who are experiencing an unacceptable rate of spirits theft:
(a) Participation in one or more consultations with an authorized representative of the board to discuss and analyze spirits theft issues;
(b) The implementation of inventory control and/or other recordkeeping system designed to reveal and track spirits theft;
(c) The structural modification or relocation of the areas where spirits are displayed or stored;
(d) The installation of adequate in-store security systems;
(e) The employment of a sufficient number of staff for the purpose of monitoring display, checkout, and storage areas; and
(f) Requiring additional training for the licensee's staff.
(3) The imposition of the regulatory provisions authorized under subsection (2) of this section are subject to the following procedural steps and requirements:
(a) If a state or local law enforcement agency obtains information indicating that a licensee is experiencing an unacceptable rate of spirits theft, the law enforcement agency is granted the discretionary authority to initiate and participate in, on a voluntary basis, the procedures outlined in this subsection (3). Should the law enforcement agency opt to initiate the investigative and consultation procedures set forth in this subsection (3), the law enforcement agency must first contact the licensee's manager and/or owner to inform him or her of such alleged theft and arrange a meeting with the licensee's manager or owner to discuss theft issues and possible solutions. This first contact by the law enforcement agency with the licensee must occur prior to the law enforcement agency informing the board of the alleged theft issues and thus initiating the procedures set forth in (c) through (h) of this subsection. At this early stage of the law enforcement consultation process, the board may not be involved in the investigation of the theft allegation until such time as the law enforcement agency has had an opportunity to consult with the licensee's manager or owner as provided under this subsection (3)(a).
(b) Following the initial consultation between the law enforcement agency and the licensee as required under (a) of this subsection, the law enforcement agency is granted the discretionary authority to forego any further consultation with the licensee and may terminate its investigation of the theft allegation. However, if the law enforcement agency opts to continue the consultation process with the licensee and proceed with its investigation, the law enforcement agency must endeavor to work with the licensee to identify theft issues and reach cooperative agreements regarding measures that should be taken to eliminate spirits theft problems.
(c) If during the consultation process outlined under (a) and (b) of this subsection the law enforcement agency determines that no spirits theft problem exists at the premises of the licensee, or that the licensee has taken the steps necessary to adequately address the theft problem, then the procedural processes outlined in this section may be terminated at the discretion of the law enforcement agency without the involvement of the board. However, if the law enforcement agency finds that a spirits theft problem exists at the licensee's premises and the licensee either refuses or fails to implement remedial measures adequate to address the theft problem, or otherwise fails to cooperate with the law enforcement agency, then the law enforcement agency must formally inform the board in writing regarding the licensee's lack of cooperation in resolving its spirits theft problem.
(d) Upon the receipt of law enforcement agency notification as required under (c) of this subsection, the board must provide written notification to the licensee of the alleged theft problem and may demand that the licensee participate in a consultation process involving a representative of the board and the licensee. The reporting law enforcement agency may be included in this consultation process at the discretion of the board and upon the agreement of the law enforcement agency. The licensee's participation in the consultation process is mandatory and the licensee is entitled to at least thirty days' notice by the board. In the event a licensee fails to attend or otherwise cooperate in initial or subsequent consultations, the board is authorized to suspend the licensee's spirits retail license until such time as the retailer is in compliance with the requirements of this subsection (3)(d).
(e) At the consultation, the board must provide the licensee with any information or evidence pertinent to any allegation that the retailer has an unacceptable spirits theft rate. The licensee must be provided with a reasonable opportunity to respond and present evidence, and, if necessary, the consultation may be continued at the discretion of the board to allow adequate time for the licensee to prepare such response.
(f) At the conclusion of the initial consultation process, if the board finds that the licensee has an unacceptable spirits theft rate, it may develop a corrective action plan outlining the remedial measures that must be taken by the licensee pursuant to subsection (2) of this section. In developing the plan, the board must make a concerted effort to obtain voluntary participation in the plan by the licensee. At every step in the consultation and corrective action plan process, the board is encouraged to work with the licensee in a cooperative manner and, where possible, to strive for voluntary agreements with the licensee. However, in the absence of licensee cooperation or agreement, the board is authorized to unilaterally develop and enforce a corrective action plan as authorized under this section. Once the plan is finalized, it must be filed with the board and a copy provided to the licensee either personally or through certified mail.
(g) Not more than thirty days after the filing and service of the original corrective action plan, the board must schedule one or more follow-up consultations with the licensee. The purpose of these consultations is to review the licensee's performance with respect to the requirements of the corrective action plan and to generally assess the licensee's progress in addressing spirits theft issues. If the licensee is following the corrective action plan but is continuing to experience an unacceptable spirits theft rate, then the board and the licensee may review and revise the plan as deemed necessary by the board. Following the filing of a revised plan, the board may schedule one or more follow-up consultations at its discretion.
(h) During the review process established in (g) of this subsection, if the board finds that the licensee has failed to comply with the requirements of the original or revised corrective action plan the board may:
(i) Demand that the licensee take remedial steps so as to be compliant with the corrective action plan and schedule an additional follow-up consultation at the board's discretion; or
(ii) If the licensee's noncompliance is deemed to be willful, suspend the retailer's spirits retail license for a period to be determined by the board by rule.
(i) If a licensee remains consistently noncompliant with the original corrective action plan and any revised plans for a period of at least nine months, then the board is authorized to suspend or revoke the licensee's spirits retail license.
(4) The board is granted the rule-making authority necessary to implement and enforce the provisions of this section pertaining to the regulation of licensees deemed to have unacceptable spirits theft rates.
(5) If the board suspends or revokes a licensee's spirits retail license under this section, the licensee may appeal and request a hearing under chapter 34.05 RCW, the administrative procedure act.
[ 2014 c 63 s 1. ]
(1) Licensees holding either a license that permits or a license with an endorsement that permits the sale of beer to a purchaser in a container supplied by the licensee or a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser and filled at the tap at the time of sale may similarly sell cider and mead to a purchaser in such a container, subject to subsection (2) of this section. Nothing in this section relieves a licensee from complying with federal law.
(2) Any mead sold pursuant to this section must have an alcohol content equal to or less than fourteen percent alcohol by volume.
(3) For purposes of this section, "cider" has the same meaning as in RCW 66.24.210(6) and "mead" has the same meaning as in RCW 66.24.215.
[ 2017 c 8 s 2; 2014 c 54 s 1. ]
If a licensee subject to the license issuance fee requirements of RCW 66.24.630(4) fails to submit its quarterly reports or payment to the board, the board may assess a penalty at a rate no higher than one percent per month on the balance of the unpaid license issuance fee.
[ 2015 c 186 s 2. ]
In accordance with RCW 69.50.3271, it is unlawful to manufacture, import, offer, or sell in this state a consumable product that contains cannabis or any form of tetrahydrocannabinol in combination with beer, wine, spirits, or any other type of liquor in the same product.
[ 2023 c 217 s 2. ]
The board may, to the extent required to control unlawful diversion of liquor from authorized channels of distribution, require that packages of liquor transported within the state be sealed with such official seal as may be adopted by the board, except in the case of:
(1) Liquor manufactured in the state; or
(2) Liquor purchased within the state or for shipment to a consumer within the state in accordance with the provisions of law; or
(3) Wine or beer exempted in RCW 66.12.010.
[ 2012 c 2 s 208 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 1955 c 39 s 3. Prior: 1943 c 216 s 3(1); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 33(1); Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-33(1). ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
If, upon the sworn complaint of any person, it is made to appear to any judge of the superior court or district court, that there is probable cause to believe that intoxicating liquor is being manufactured, sold, bartered, exchanged, given away, furnished, or otherwise disposed of or kept in violation of the provisions of this title, such judge shall, with or without the approval of the prosecuting attorney, issue a warrant directed to a civil officer of the state duly authorized to enforce or assist in enforcing any law thereof, or to an inspector of the board, commanding the civil officer or inspector to search the premises, room, house, building, boat, vehicle, structure or place designated and described in the complaint and warrant, and to seize all intoxicating liquor there found, together with the vessels in which it is contained, and all implements, furniture, and fixtures used or kept for the illegal manufacture, sale, barter, exchange, giving away, furnishing, or otherwise disposing of the liquor, and to safely keep the same, and to make a return of the warrant within ten days, showing all acts and things done thereunder, with a particular statement of all articles seized and the name of the person or persons in whose possession they were found, if any, and if no person is found in the possession of the articles, the return shall so state.
[ 1987 c 202 s 220; 1955 c 288 s 1; 1955 c 39 s 4. Prior: 1943 c 216 s 3(2), part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 33(2), part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-33(2), part. ]
NOTES:
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
A copy of the warrant, together with a detailed receipt for the property taken shall be served upon the person found in possession of any intoxicating liquor, furniture, or fixtures so seized, and if no person is found in possession thereof, a copy of the warrant and receipt shall be left in a conspicuous place upon the premises wherein they are found.
[ 1955 c 39 s 5. Prior: 1943 c 216 s 3(2), part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 33(2), part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-33(2), part. ]
All liquor seized pursuant to the authority of a search warrant or an arrest shall, upon adjudication that it was kept in violation of this title, be forfeited and upon forfeiture be disposed of by the agency seizing the liquor.
[ 1993 c 26 s 1; 1955 c 39 s 6. Prior: 1943 c 216 s 3(2), part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 23(2), part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-33(2), part. ]
Upon the return of the warrant as provided herein, the judge shall fix a time, not less than ten days, and not more than thirty days thereafter, for the hearing of the return, when he or she shall proceed to hear and determine whether or not the articles seized, or any part thereof, were used or in any manner kept or possessed by any person with the intention of violating any of the provisions of this title.
[ 1987 c 202 s 221; 1955 c 39 s 7. Prior: 1943 c 216 s 3(3), part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 33(2), part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-33(3), part. ]
NOTES:
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
At the hearing, any person claiming any interest in any of the articles seized may appear and be heard upon filing a written claim setting forth particularly the character and extent of his or her interest, and the burden shall rest upon the claimant to show, by competent evidence, his or her property right or interest in the articles claimed, and that they were not used in violation of any of the provisions of this title, and were not in any manner kept or possessed with the intention of violating any of its provisions.
[ 2012 c 117 s 283; 1955 c 39 s 8. Prior: 1943 c 216 s 3(3), part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 33(2), part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-33(3), part. ]
If, upon the hearing, the evidence warrants, or, if no person appears as claimant, the judge shall thereupon enter a judgment of forfeiture, and order such articles destroyed forthwith: PROVIDED, That if, in the opinion of the judge, any of the forfeited articles other than intoxicating liquors are of value and adapted to any lawful use, the judge shall, as a part of the order and judgment, direct that the articles other than intoxicating liquor be sold as upon execution by the officer having them in custody, and the proceeds of the sale after payment of all costs of the proceedings shall be paid into the liquor revolving fund.
[ 1987 c 202 s 222; 1955 c 39 s 9. Prior: 1943 c 216 s 3(3), part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 33(2), part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-33(3), part. ]
NOTES:
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
Action under RCW 66.32.010 through 66.32.080 and the forfeiture, destruction, or sale of any articles thereunder shall not bar prosecution under any other provision.
[ 1955 c 39 s 10. Prior: 1943 c 216 s 3(3), part; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 33(2), part; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-33(3), part. ]
In every case in which liquor is seized by a sheriff or deputy of any county or by a police officer of any municipality or by a member of the Washington state patrol, or any other authorized peace officer or inspector, it shall be the duty of the sheriff or deputy of any county, or chief of police of the municipality, or the chief of the Washington state patrol, as the case may be, to forthwith report in writing to the board of particulars of such seizure.
[ 1993 c 26 s 2; 1987 c 202 s 223; 1935 c 174 s 8; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 55; RRS s 7306-55. ]
NOTES:
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
Any room, house, building, boat, vehicle, structure, or place, except premises licensed under this title, where liquor, as defined in this title, is manufactured, kept, sold, bartered, exchanged, given away, furnished, or otherwise disposed of in violation of the provisions of this title or of the laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution, and sale of liquor, and all property kept in and used in maintaining such a place, are hereby declared to be a common nuisance. The prosecuting attorney of the county in which such nuisance is situated shall institute and maintain an action in the superior court of such county in the name of the state of Washington to abate and perpetually enjoin such nuisance. The plaintiff shall not be required to give bond in such action, and restraining orders, temporary injunctions, and permanent injunctions may be granted in said cause as in other injunction proceedings, and upon final judgment against the defendant, such court may also order that said room, house, building, boat, vehicle, structure, or place, shall be closed for a period of one year; or until the owner, lessee, tenant, or occupant thereof shall give bond with sufficient surety, to be approved by the court making the order, in the penal sum of not less than one thousand dollars payable to the state of Washington, and conditioned that liquor will not thereafter be manufactured, kept, sold, bartered, exchanged, given away, furnished, or otherwise disposed of thereon or therein in violation of the provisions of this title or of the laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution, and sale of liquor, and that he or she will pay all fines, costs, and damages assessed against him or her for any violation of this title or of the laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution, and sale of liquor. If any condition of such bond be violated, the whole amount may be recovered as a penalty for the use of the county wherein the premises are situated.
In all cases where any person has been convicted of a violation of this title or the laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution, and sale of liquor an action may be brought in the superior court of the county in which the premises are situated, to abate as a nuisance any real estate or other property involved in the commission of said offense, and in any such action a certified copy of the record of such conviction shall be admissible in evidence and prima facie evidence that the room, house, building, boat, vehicle, structure, or place against which such action is brought is a public nuisance.
[ 2012 c 117 s 284; 1939 c 172 s 9 (adding new section 33-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-33A. Formerly RCW 66.36.010 through 66.36.040. ]
(1) For an election upon the question of whether the sale of liquor is permitted, the election unit must be any city or town, or that portion of any county not within cities and towns.
(2) This section is subject to the exception specified in RCW 66.40.030(2).
[ 2015 c 153 s 1; 1957 c 263 s 3. Prior: (i) 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 82; RRS s 7306-82. (ii) 1949 c 5 s 2, part (adding new section 23-S-2 to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23S-2, part. ]
Within any unit referred to in RCW 66.40.010, upon compliance with the conditions hereinafter prescribed, there may be held, at the time and as a part of any general election, an election upon the question of whether the sale of liquor shall be permitted within such unit; and in the event that any such election is held in any such unit, no other election under this section shall be held prior to the next succeeding general election.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 83; RRS s 7306-83. ]
(1) Within any election unit referred to in RCW 66.40.010, subject to the exception specified in subsection (2) of this section, a separate election may be held upon the question of whether the sale of liquor under spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility licenses, must be permitted within the election unit. The conditions and procedure for holding the election are prescribed by RCW 66.40.020, 66.40.040, 66.40.100, 66.40.110, and 66.40.120. Whenever a majority of qualified voters voting upon the question in the election unit vote "against the sale of liquor under spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility licenses," the county auditor must file with the *liquor control board a certificate showing the result of the canvass at the election. Ninety days after the date of that canvass, it is unlawful for licensees to maintain and operate premises within the election unit licensed under spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility licenses.
(2) The addition after an election under subsection (1) of this section of new territory to the election unit by annexation, disincorporation, or otherwise does not extend the prohibition against the sale of liquor under spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility licenses to the new territory. Furthermore, the new territory is not: (a) Within the election unit in any subsequent election under subsection (1) of this section; or (b) subject to any prohibition adopted pursuant to any subsequent election under subsection (1) of this section.
(3) Elections held under RCW 66.40.010, 66.40.020, 66.40.040, 66.40.100, 66.40.110, 66.40.120, and 66.40.140 are limited to the question of whether the sale of liquor by means other than under spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility licenses is permitted within the election unit.
[ 2015 c 153 s 2; 2009 c 271 s 9; 1999 c 281 s 8; 1994 c 55 s 1; 1949 c 5 s 12 (adding new section 83-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-83A. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Any unit referred to in RCW 66.40.010 may hold such election upon the question of whether the sale of liquor shall be permitted within the boundaries of such unit, upon the filing with the county auditor of the county within which such unit is located, of a petition subscribed by qualified electors of the unit equal in number to at least thirty percent of the electors voting at the last general election within such unit. Such petition shall designate the unit in which the election is desired to be had, the date upon which the election is desired to be held, and the question that is desired to be submitted. The persons signing such a petition shall state their post office address, the name or number of the precinct in which they reside, and in case the subscriber be a resident of a city, the street and house number, if any, of his or her residence, and the date of signature. Said petition shall be filed not less than sixty days nor more than ninety days prior to the date upon which the election is to be held. No signature shall be valid unless the above requirements are complied with, and unless the date of signing the same is less than ninety days preceding the date of filing. No signature shall be withdrawn after the filing of such petition. Such petition may consist of one or more sheets and shall be fastened together as one document, filed as a whole, and when filed shall not be withdrawn or added to. Such petition shall be a public document and shall be subject to the inspection of the public. Upon the request of anyone filing such a petition and paying, or tendering to the county auditor one dollar for each hundred names, or fraction thereof, signed thereto, together with a copy thereof, said county auditor shall immediately compare the original and copy and attach to such copy and deliver to such person his or her official certificate that such copy is a true copy of the original, stating the date when such original was filed in his or her office; and said officer shall furnish, upon the demand of any person, a copy of said petition, upon payment of the same fee required for the filing of original petitions.
[ 2012 c 117 s 285; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 84; RRS s 7306-84. Formerly RCW 66.40.040 through 66.40.090. ]
Upon the filing of a petition as hereinbefore provided, the county auditor with whom it is filed shall cause the names on said petition to be compared with the names on the voters' official registration records provided for by law with respect to such unit. The officer or deputy making the comparison shall place his or her initials in ink opposite the signatures of those persons who are shown by such registration records to be legal voters and shall certify that the signatures so initialed are the signatures of legal voters of the state of Washington and of said unit, and shall sign such certificate. In the event that said petition, after such comparison, shall be found to have been signed by the percentage of legal voters of said unit referred to in RCW 66.40.040, the question shall be placed upon the ballot at the next general election.
[ 2012 c 117 s 286; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 85; RRS s 7306-85. ]
Upon the ballot to be used at such general election the question shall be submitted in the following form:
"Shall the sale of liquor be permitted within . . . . . . (here specify the unit in which election is to be held)." Immediately below said question shall be placed the alternative answers, as follows:
| "For sale of liquor. . . . | ( ) | | --- | --- | | Against sale of liquor. . . . | ( )." |
Each person desiring to vote in favor of permitting the sale of liquor within the unit in which the election is to be held shall designate his or her choice beside the words "For sale of liquor," and those desiring to vote against the permitting of the sale of liquor within such unit shall designate their choice beside the words "Against sale of liquor," and the ballot shall be counted accordingly.
[ 2012 c 117 s 287; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 86; RRS s 7306-86. ]
The returns of any such election shall be canvassed in the manner provided by law. If the majority of qualified electors voting upon said question at said election shall have voted "For sale of liquor" within the unit in which the election is held, the sale of liquor may be continued in accordance with the provisions of this title. If the majority of the qualified electors voting on such question at any such election shall vote "Against sale of liquor", then, within thirty days after such canvass no sale or purchase of liquor, save as herein provided, shall be made within such unit until such permission so to do be subsequently granted at an election held for that purpose under the provisions of this title.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 87; RRS s 7306-87. ]
Ninety days after December 2, 1948, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility licenses may be issued in any election unit in which the sale of liquor is then lawful. No spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility license shall be issued in any election unit in which the sale of liquor is forbidden as the result of an election held under RCW 66.40.010, 66.40.020, 66.40.040, 66.40.100, 66.40.110, 66.40.120 and 66.40.140, unless a majority of the qualified electors in such election unit voting upon this initiative at the general election in November, 1948, vote in favor of this initiative, or unless at a subsequent general election in which the question of whether the sale of liquor under spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility licenses shall be permitted within such unit is submitted to the electorate, as provided in RCW 66.40.030, a majority of the qualified electors voting upon such question vote "for the sale of liquor under spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; spirits, beer, and wine nightclub; and sports entertainment facility licenses."
[ 2009 c 271 s 10; 1999 c 281 s 9; 1949 c 5 s 13 (adding new section 87-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-87A. ]
Whenever a majority of qualified voters voting upon said question in any such unit shall have voted "Against sale of liquor," the county auditor shall file with the *liquor control board a certificate showing the result of the canvass at such election; and thereafter, except as hereinafter provided, it shall not be lawful for a liquor store to be operated therein nor for licensees to maintain and operate licensed premises therein except as hereinafter provided:
(1) As to any stores maintained by the board within any such unit at the time of such licensing, the board shall have a period of thirty days from and after the date of the canvass of the vote upon such election to continue operation of its store or stores therein.
(2) As to any premises licensed hereunder within any such unit at the time of such election, such licensee shall have a period of sixty days from and after the date of the canvass of the vote upon such election in which to discontinue operation of its store or stores therein.
(3) Nothing herein contained shall prevent any distillery, brewery, rectifying plant or winery or the licensed operators thereof from selling its manufactured product, manufactured within such unit, outside the boundaries thereof.
(4) Nothing herein contained shall prevent any person residing in any unit in which the sale of liquor shall have been forbidden by popular vote as herein provided, who is otherwise qualified to receive and hold a permit under this title, from lawfully purchasing without the unit and transporting into or receiving within the unit, liquor lawfully purchased by him or her outside the boundaries of such unit.
[ 2012 c 117 s 288; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 88; RRS s 7306-88. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
No election in any unit referred to in RCW 66.40.010, 66.40.020, 66.40.040, 66.40.100, 66.40.110, 66.40.120 and 66.40.140, upon the question of whether the sale of liquor shall be permitted within the boundaries of such unit shall be held at the same time as an election is held in the same unit upon the question of whether the sale of liquor under the provisions of RCW 66.40.030 shall be permitted. In the event valid and sufficient petitions are filed which would otherwise place both questions on the same ballot that question upon which the petition was filed with the county auditor first shall be placed on the ballot to the exclusion of the other.
[ 1949 c 93 s 1 (adding new section 88-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-88A. ]
(1) All county and municipal peace officers are hereby charged with the duty of investigating and prosecuting all violations of this title, and the penal laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution and sale of liquor, and all fines imposed for violations of this title and the penal laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution and sale of liquor belong to the county, city or town wherein the court imposing the fine is located, and must be placed in the general fund for payment of the salaries of those engaged in the enforcement of the provisions of this title and the penal laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution and sale of liquor. However, all fees, fines, forfeitures and penalties collected or assessed by a district court because of the violation of a state law must be remitted as provided in chapter 3.62 RCW as now exists or is later amended.
(2) In addition to any and all other powers granted, the board has the power to enforce the penal provisions of this title and the penal laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution and sale of liquor.
(3) In addition to the other duties under this section, the board must enforce chapters 82.24, 82.26, and 82.25 RCW.
(4) The board may appoint and employ, assign to duty and fix the compensation of, officers to be designated as liquor enforcement officers. Such liquor enforcement officers have the power, under the supervision of the board, to enforce the penal provisions of this title and the penal laws of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution and sale of liquor. They have the power and authority to serve and execute all warrants and process of law issued by the courts in enforcing the penal provisions of this title or of any penal law of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution and sale of liquor, and the provisions of chapters 82.24, 82.26, and 82.25 RCW. They have the power to arrest without a warrant any person or persons found in the act of violating any of the penal provisions of this title or of any penal law of this state relating to the manufacture, importation, transportation, possession, distribution and sale of liquor, and the provisions of chapters 82.24, 82.26, and 82.25 RCW.
[ 2019 c 445 s 202; 1998 c 18 s 1; 1987 c 202 s 224; 1969 ex.s. c 199 s 28; 1939 c 172 s 5; 1935 c 174 s 11; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 70; RRS s 7306-70. Formerly RCW 66.44.010 through 66.44.030. ]
NOTES:
Conflict with federal requirements—Effective date—2019 c 445: See RCW 82.25.900 and 82.25.901.
Automatic expiration date and tax preference performance statement exemption—2019 c 445: See note following RCW 82.08.0318.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
In describing the offense respecting the sale, or keeping for sale or other disposal, of liquor, or the having, keeping, giving, purchasing or consumption of liquor in any information, summons, conviction, warrant, or proceeding under this title, it shall be sufficient to simply state the sale, or keeping for sale or disposal, having, keeping, giving, purchasing, or consumption of liquor, without stating the name or kind of such liquor or the price thereof, or to whom it was sold or disposed of, or by whom consumed, or from whom it was purchased or received; and it shall not be necessary to state the quantity of liquor so sold, kept for sale, disposed of, had, kept, given, purchased, or consumed, except in the case of offenses where the quantity is essential, and then it shall be sufficient to allege the sale or disposal of more or less than such quantity.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 57; RRS s 7306-57. ]
The description of any offense under this title, in the words of this title, or in any words of like effect, shall be sufficient in law; and any exception, exemption, provision, excuse, or qualification, whether it occurs by way of proviso or in the description of the offense in this title, may be proved by the defendant, but need not be specified or negatived in the information; but if it is so specified or negatived, no proof in relation to the matter so specified or negatived shall be required on the part of the informant or complainant.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 58; RRS s 7306-58. ]
In any proceeding under this title, proof of one unlawful sale of liquor shall suffice to establish prima facie the intent or purpose of unlawfully keeping liquor for sale in violation of this title.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 59; RRS s 7306-59. ]
A certificate, signed by any person appointed or designated by the board in writing as an analyst, as to the percentage of alcohol contained in any liquid, drink, liquor, or combination of liquors, when produced in any court or before any court shall be prima facie evidence of the percentage of alcohol contained therein.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 60; RRS s 7306-60. ]
In all prosecutions, actions, or proceedings under the provisions of this title against a corporation, every summons, warrant, order, writ or other proceeding may be served on the corporation in the same manner as is now provided by law for service of civil process.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 61; RRS s 7306-61. ]
Any person doing any act required to be licensed under this title without having in force a license issued to him or her shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
[ 2012 c 117 s 289; 1955 c 289 s 2. Prior: (i) 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 28; RRS s 7306-28.(ii) 1939 c 172 s 6(1); 1935 c 174 s 6(1); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 92(1); RRS s 7306-92(1). ]
Except as permitted by this title, including as allowed under RCW 66.24.800, no person shall open the package containing liquor or consume liquor in a public place. Every person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a class 3 civil infraction under chapter 7.80 RCW.
[ 2025 c 361 s 6; 1999 c 189 s 3; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 21; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 34; RRS s 7306-34. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—Expiration date—2025 c 361: See notes following RCW 66.24.800.
Application—1999 c 189: See note following RCW 66.28.230.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
PDFRCW 66.44.100
Opening or consuming liquor in public place—Penalty. (Effective December 31, 2027.)
Except as permitted by this title, no person shall open the package containing liquor or consume liquor in a public place. Every person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a class 3 civil infraction under chapter 7.80 RCW.
[ 1999 c 189 s 3; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 21; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 34; RRS s 7306-34.]
Application—1999 c 189: See note following RCW 66.28.230.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) No person other than an employee of the board may keep or have in his or her possession any official seal adopted by the board under this title, unless the same is attached to a package in accordance with the law; nor may any person keep or have in his or her possession any design in imitation of any official seal prescribed under this title, or calculated to deceive by its resemblance thereto, or any paper upon which any design in imitation thereof, or calculated to deceive as aforesaid, is stamped, engraved, lithographed, printed, or otherwise marked.
(2)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, every person who willfully violates this section is guilty of a gross misdemeanor and is liable on conviction thereof for a first offense to imprisonment in the county jail for a period of not less than three months nor more than six months, without the option of the payment of a fine, and for a second offense, to imprisonment in the county jail for not less than six months nor more than three hundred sixty-four days, without the option of the payment of a fine.
(b) A third or subsequent offense is a class C felony, punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility for not less than one year nor more than two years.
[ 2012 c 2 s 209 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2011 c 96 s 46; 2005 c 151 s 11; 2003 c 53 s 299; 1992 c 7 s 42; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 47; RRS s 7306-47. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Findings—Intent—2011 c 96: See note following RCW 9A.20.021.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Except as otherwise provided in this title, every person who sells by the drink or bottle, any liquor shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
[ 1955 c 289 s 3. Prior: 1939 c 172 s 6(2); 1935 c 174 s 15(2); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 92(2); RRS s 7306-92(2). ]
Every person who shall sell or offer for sale, or transport in any manner, any spirituous liquor, without government stamp or seal attached thereto, or who shall operate without a license, any still or other device for the production of spirituous liquor, or shall have in his or her possession or under his or her control any mash capable of being distilled into spirituous liquor except as provided in RCW 66.12.130, shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall upon his or her first conviction be fined not less than five hundred dollars and confined in the county jail not less than six months, and upon second and subsequent conviction shall be fined not less than one thousand dollars and confined in the county jail not less than one year.
[ 2012 c 117 s 290; 1980 c 140 s 4; 1955 c 289 s 4. Prior: 1939 c 172 s 6(3); 1935 c 174 s 15(3); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 92(3); RRS s 7306-92(3). ]
If any person in this state buys alcoholic beverages from any person other than a person authorized by the board to sell alcoholic beverages, he or she is guilty of a misdemeanor.
[ 2012 c 2 s 210 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 1955 c 289 s 5. Prior: 1939 c 172 s 6(4); 1935 c 174 s 15(4); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 92(4); RRS s 7306-92(4). ]
NOTES:
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Except as otherwise provided in this title, any person who has or keeps or transports alcoholic beverages other than those purchased from the board, a state liquor store, or some person authorized by the board to sell them, shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
[ 1955 c 289 s 6. Prior: 1939 c 172 s 6(5); 1935 c 174 s 15(5); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 92(5); RRS s 7306-92(5). ]
Any person who keeps or possesses liquor upon his or her person or in any place, or on premises conducted or maintained by him or her as principal or agent with the intent to sell it contrary to provisions of this title, shall be guilty of a violation of this title. The possession of liquor by the principal or agent on premises conducted or maintained, under federal authority, as a retail dealer in liquors, shall be prima facie evidence of the intent to sell liquor.
[ 2012 c 117 s 291; 1955 c 289 s 7. Prior: 1937 c 144 s 1 (adding new section 92A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-92A. ]
Every person who violates any provision of this title or the regulations shall be guilty of a violation of this title, whether otherwise declared or not.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 91; RRS s 7306-91. ]
(1) Every person guilty of a violation of this title for which no penalty has been specifically provided:
(a) For a first offense, is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars, or by imprisonment for not more than two months, or both;
(b) For a second offense, is guilty of a gross misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than six months; and
(c) For a third or subsequent offense, is guilty of a gross misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to three hundred sixty-four days.
(2) If the offender convicted of an offense referred to in this section is a corporation, it shall for a first offense be liable to a penalty of not more than five thousand dollars, and for a second or subsequent offense to a penalty of not more than ten thousand dollars, or to forfeiture of its corporate license, or both.
(3) Every district judge and municipal judge shall have concurrent jurisdiction with superior court judges of the state of Washington of all violations of the provisions of this title and may impose any punishment provided therefor.
[ 2011 c 96 s 47; 2003 c 53 s 300; 1987 c 202 s 225; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 22; 1935 c 174 s 16; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 93; RRS s 7306-93. ]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2011 c 96: See note following RCW 9A.20.021.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
If an institution of higher education chooses to allow the sale of alcoholic beverages on campus, the legislature encourages the institution to feature products produced in the state of Washington.
[ 2003 c 51 s 2. ]
(1) No person shall sell any liquor to any person apparently under the influence of liquor.
(2)(a) No person who is apparently under the influence of liquor may purchase or consume liquor on any premises licensed by the board.
(b) A violation of this subsection is an infraction punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars.
(c) A defendant's intoxication may not be used as a defense in an action under this subsection.
(d) Until July 1, 2000, every establishment licensed under RCW 66.24.330 or 66.24.420 shall conspicuously post in the establishment notice of the prohibition against the purchase or consumption of liquor under this subsection.
(3) An administrative action for violation of subsection (1) of this section and an infraction issued for violation of subsection (2) of this section arising out of the same incident are separate actions and the outcome of one shall not determine the outcome of the other.
[ 1998 c 259 s 1; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 36; RRS s 7306-36. ]
Except in the case of liquor administered by a physician or dentist or sold upon a prescription in accordance with the provisions of this title, no person shall procure or supply, or assist directly or indirectly in procuring or supplying, liquor for or to anyone whose permit is suspended or has been canceled.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 38; RRS s 7306-38. ]
Every person engaged wholly or in part in the business of carrying passengers for hire, and every agent, servant, or employee of such person, who knowingly permits any person to drink any intoxicating liquor in any public conveyance, except in the compartment where such liquor is sold or served under the authority of a license lawfully issued, is guilty of a misdemeanor. This section does not apply to a public conveyance that is commercially chartered for group use or a for hire vehicle licensed under city, county, or state law.
[ 1983 c 165 s 29; 1909 c 249 s 442; RRS s 2694. ]
NOTES:
Legislative finding, intent—Effective dates—Severability—1983 c 165: See notes following RCW 46.20.308.
Alcoholic beverages, drinking or open container in vehicle on highway, exceptions: RCW 46.61.519.
Every person who drinks any intoxicating liquor in any public conveyance, except in a compartment or place where sold or served under the authority of a license lawfully issued, is guilty of a misdemeanor. With respect to a public conveyance that is commercially chartered for group use and with respect to a for hire vehicle licensed under city, county, or state law, this section applies only to the driver of the vehicle.
[ 1983 c 165 s 30; 1909 c 249 s 441; RRS s 2693. ]
NOTES:
Legislative finding, intent—Effective dates—Severability—1983 c 165: See notes following RCW 46.20.308.
Alcoholic beverages, drinking or open container in vehicle on highway, exceptions: RCW 46.61.519.
It shall be unlawful for a candidate for office or for nomination thereto whose name appears upon the ballot at any election to give to or purchase for another person, not a member of his or her family, any liquor in or upon any premises licensed by the state for the sale of any such liquor by the drink during the hours that the polls are open on the day of such election.
[ 1971 ex.s. c 112 s 2. ]
(1) It is unlawful for any person to sell, give, or otherwise supply liquor to any person under the age of 21 years or permit any person under that age to consume liquor on his or her premises or on any premises under his or her control. For the purposes of this subsection, "premises" includes real property, houses, buildings, and other structures, and motor vehicles and watercraft. A violation of this subsection is a gross misdemeanor punishable as provided for in chapter 9A.20 RCW.
(2) The board may impose civil penalties as set forth in this section on individuals for the sale, gift, or otherwise supply of liquor to any person under the age of 21 occurring from a business licensed by the board under this chapter, and by a person performing acts of employment on behalf of the business. The board may impose a civil penalty in lieu of issuing a criminal citation under subsection (1) of this section.
(a) Any civil penalty imposed by the board may not be in addition to criminal enforcement, and the board may not issue a criminal citation in any matter in which it issues a civil penalty.
(b) Nothing in this section prevents criminal enforcement in lieu of a civil penalty for continued violations, or violations involving intentional sales of, or knowingly furnishing, alcohol to a person under the age of 21 years.
(c) Nothing in this section prevents enforcement using provisions of RCW 66.20.300 through 66.20.350 when a person holds an alcohol server permit.
(d) The monetary penalty that the board may impose based upon one or more violations under this section may not exceed the following:
(i) $200 for the first violation;
(ii) $400 for a second violation occurring within three years; and
(iii) $500 for a third, or subsequent, violation occurring within three years.
(e) The board may develop and offer a class for retail clerks and use this class in lieu of a monetary penalty for the clerk's first violation.
(f) The board may seek injunctive relief to enforce the provisions of this chapter. The board may initiate legal action to collect civil penalties imposed under this chapter if they have not been paid within 30 days after imposition. In any action filed by the board under this chapter, the court may, in addition to any other relief, award the board reasonable attorneys' fees and costs.
(g) All proceedings under this section must be conducted in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW.
(3)(a) It is unlawful for any person under the age of 21 years to possess, consume, or otherwise acquire any liquor. A violation of this subsection is a gross misdemeanor punishable as provided for in chapter 9A.20 RCW.
(b) It is unlawful for a person under the age of 21 years to be in a public place, or to be in a motor vehicle in a public place, while exhibiting the effects of having consumed liquor. For purposes of this subsection, exhibiting the effects of having consumed liquor means that a person has the odor of liquor on his or her breath and either: (i) Is in possession of or close proximity to a container that has or recently had liquor in it; or (ii) by speech, manner, appearance, behavior, lack of coordination, or otherwise, exhibits that he or she is under the influence of liquor. This subsection (3)(b) does not apply if the person is in the presence of a parent or guardian or has consumed or is consuming liquor under circumstances described in subsection (5), (6), or (8) of this section.
(4) Subsections (1) and (3)(a) of this section do not apply to liquor given or permitted to be given to a person under the age of 21 years by a parent or guardian and consumed in the presence of the parent or guardian. This subsection shall not authorize consumption or possession of liquor by a person under the age of twenty-one years on any premises licensed under chapter 66.24 RCW.
(5) This section does not apply to liquor given for medicinal purposes to a person under the age of 21 years by a parent, guardian, physician, or dentist.
(6) This section does not apply to liquor given to a person under the age of 21 years when such liquor is being used in connection with religious services and the amount consumed is the minimal amount necessary for the religious service.
(7) This section does not apply to liquor provided to students under 21 years of age in accordance with a special permit issued under *RCW 66.20.010(12).
(8)(a) A person under the age of 21 years acting in good faith who seeks medical assistance for someone experiencing alcohol poisoning shall not be charged or prosecuted under subsection (3)(a) of this section, if the evidence for the charge was obtained as a result of the person seeking medical assistance.
(b) A person under the age of 21 years who experiences alcohol poisoning and is in need of medical assistance shall not be charged or prosecuted under subsection (3)(a) of this section, if the evidence for the charge was obtained as a result of the poisoning and need for medical assistance.
(c) The protection in this subsection shall not be grounds for suppression of evidence in other criminal charges.
(9) Conviction or forfeiture of bail for a violation of this section by a person under the age of 21 years at the time of such conviction or forfeiture shall not be a disqualification of that person to acquire a license to sell or dispense any liquor after that person has attained the age of 21 years.
[ 2024 c 71 s 2; 2015 c 59 s 2; 2013 c 112 s 2; 1998 c 4 s 1; 1993 c 513 s 1; 1987 c 458 s 3; 1955 c 70 s 2. Prior: 1935 c 174 s 6(1); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 37(1); RRS s 7306-37(1); prior: Code 1881 s 939; 1877 p 205 s 5. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 66.20.010 was amended by 2025 c 167 s 1, changing subsection (12) to subsection (11).
Findings—2024 c 71: "The legislature finds that preventing sales of alcohol to minors is a vital public health effort. However, the penalties associated with underage sale vary depending upon the seller's occupation or location. While servers and bartenders have administrative penalty options that are a component of the mandatory alcohol server training, store clerks do not and instead receive a citation for a gross misdemeanor.
The likelihood that these charges are filed varies by county, leaving some with no penalty at all, and others with a criminal record that may hamper their ability to find another job.
The legislature finds that retaining the criminal penalty is warranted in cases of intentional or repeat sales to minors. However, the legislature also finds that adding the option for administrative penalties would harmonize the penalties for store clerks with restaurant servers, and for store clerks found to have sold tobacco products to minors. The legislature therefore finds that enabling the ability for the liquor and cannabis board to issue administrative penalties and creating an escalating schedule of monetary fines, would reduce geographic disparities as well as reducing the number of people with criminal records. The legislature further finds that this would not harm public health or expand youth access." [ 2024 c 71 s 1.]
Intent—2013 c 112: "The legislature intends to save lives by increasing timely medical attention to alcohol poisoning victims through the establishment of limited immunity from prosecution for people under the age of twenty-one years who seek medical assistance in alcohol poisoning situations. Dozens of alcohol poisonings occur each year in Washington state. Many of these incidents occur because people delay or forego seeking medical assistance for fear of arrest or police involvement, which researchers continually identify as a significant barrier to the ideal response of calling 911." [ 2013 c 112 s 1.]
Severability—1987 c 458: See note following RCW 48.21.160.
Minors, access to tobacco, role of liquor and cannabis board: Chapter 70.155 RCW.
Every person under the age of twenty-one years who makes application for a permit shall be guilty of an offense against this title.
[ 1955 c 70 s 3. Prior: 1935 c 174 s 6(2); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 37(2); RRS s 7306-37(2). ]
(1) Every person under the age of twenty-one years who purchases or attempts to purchase liquor shall be guilty of a violation of this title. This section does not apply to persons between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one years who are participating in a controlled purchase program authorized by the *liquor control board under rules adopted by the board. Violations occurring under a private, controlled purchase program authorized by the *liquor control board may not be used for criminal or administrative prosecution.
(2) An employer who conducts an in-house controlled purchase program authorized under this section shall provide his or her employees a written description of the employer's in-house controlled purchase program. The written description must include notice of actions an employer may take as a consequence of an employee's failure to comply with company policies regarding the sale of alcohol during an in-house controlled purchase.
(3) An in-house controlled purchase program authorized under this section shall be for the purposes of employee training and employer self-compliance checks. An employer may not terminate an employee solely for a first-time failure to comply with company policies regarding the sale of alcohol during an in-house controlled purchase program authorized under this section.
(4) Every person between the ages of eighteen and twenty, inclusive, who is convicted of a violation of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable as provided by RCW 9A.20.021, except that a minimum fine of two hundred fifty dollars shall be imposed and any sentence requiring community restitution shall require not fewer than twenty-five hours of community restitution.
[ 2003 c 53 s 301; 2001 c 295 s 1; 1965 c 49 s 1; 1955 c 70 s 4. Prior: 1935 c 174 s 6(1); 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 37(1); RRS s 7306-37(1). ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
The Washington *state liquor control board shall furnish notification of any hearing or hearings held, wherein any licensee or his or her employee is found to have sold liquor to a minor, to the prosecuting attorney of the county in which the sale took place, upon which the prosecuting attorney may formulate charges against said minor or minors for such violation of RCW 66.44.290 as may appear.
[ 2012 c 117 s 292; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 23; 1965 c 49 s 3. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Any person who invites a minor into a public place where liquor is sold and treats, gives or purchases liquor for such minor, or permits a minor to treat, give or purchase liquor for the adult; or holds out such minor to be twenty-one years of age or older to the owner or employee of the liquor establishment, a law enforcement officer, or a liquor enforcement officer shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
[ 1994 c 201 s 7; 1941 c 78 s 1; Rem. Supp. 1941 s 7306-37A. ]
(1) Except as otherwise provided by RCW 66.44.316, 66.44.350, and 66.24.590, it shall be a misdemeanor:
(a) To serve or allow to remain in any area classified by the board as off-limits to any person under the age of twenty-one years;
(b) For any person under the age of twenty-one years to enter or remain in any area classified as off-limits to such a person, but persons under twenty-one years of age may pass through a restricted area in a facility holding a spirits, beer, and wine private club license;
(c) For any person under the age of twenty-one years to represent his or her age as being twenty-one or more years for the purpose of purchasing liquor or securing admission to, or remaining in any area classified by the board as off-limits to such a person.
(2) The Washington *state liquor control board shall have the power and it shall be its duty to classify licensed premises or portions of licensed premises as off-limits to persons under the age of twenty-one years of age.
[ 2007 c 370 s 12; 1998 c 126 s 14; 1997 c 321 s 53; 1994 c 201 s 8; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 24; 1943 c 245 s 1 (adding new section 36-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-36A. Formerly RCW 66.24.130 and 66.44.310. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—2007 c 370 ss 10-20: See note following RCW 66.04.010.
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Minors, access to tobacco, role of liquor and cannabis board: Chapter 70.155 RCW.
(1) It is lawful for:
(a) Professional musicians, professional disc jockeys, or professional sound or lighting technicians actively engaged in support of professional musicians or professional disc jockeys, 18 years of age and older, to enter and to remain in any premises licensed under the provisions of this title, but only during and in the course of their employment as musicians, disc jockeys, or sound or lighting technicians;
(b) Persons 18 years of age and older performing janitorial services to enter and remain on premises licensed under the provisions of this title when the premises are closed but only during and in the course of their performance of janitorial services;
(c) Employees of amusement device companies, which employees are 18 years of age or older, to enter and to remain in any premises licensed under the provisions of this title, but only during and in the course of their employment for the purpose of installing, maintaining, repairing, or removing an amusement device. For the purposes of this section amusement device means coin-operated video games, pinball machines, juke boxes, or other similar devices;
(d) Security and law enforcement officers, and firefighters 18 years of age or older to enter and to remain in any premises licensed under this title, but only during and in the course of their official duties and only if they are not the direct employees of the licensee. However, the application of this subsection to security officers is limited to casual, isolated incidents arising in the course of their duties and does not extend to continuous or frequent entering or remaining in any licensed premises; and
(e) Persons 18 years of age and older performing services unrelated to the sale or service of alcohol to enter and remain on premises licensed under this title, but only during and in the course of their employment as a dishwasher, cook, chef, sanitation specialist, or other kitchen staff and only under the following conditions:
(i) The individual may not perform any services or work in the bar, lounge, or dining area of the licensed premises;
(ii) The individual may not serve food, drinks, or otherwise interact with the patrons of the licensee;
(iii) The individual may never be in possession of or consume alcohol at any time; and
(iv) The licensee must ensure that a supervisor, who is at least 21 years of age, is present at all times that an individual employed under this section is working.
(2) This section shall not be construed as permitting the sale or distribution of any alcoholic beverages to any person under the age of 21 years.
[ 2023 c 158 s 2; 1985 c 323 s 1; 1984 c 136 s 1; 1980 c 22 s 1; 1973 1st ex.s. c 96 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2023 c 158: "(1) The legislature finds that the COVID-19 pandemic created extreme labor shortages in certain industries, especially in the food service and hospitality industry.
(2) The legislature further finds that establishments traditionally classified as off-limits to persons under the age of 21 have experienced even greater labor challenges in occupations that do not involve the serving of alcohol or interacting with patrons, such as dishwashers, sanitation specialists, line cooks, prep cooks, fry cooks, and chefs.
(3) The legislature further finds that these occupations are critical entry-level jobs that help youth develop strong skills that translate into success in other workplaces and occupations later in life.
(4) Therefore, the legislature intends to allow, under specific and limited circumstances, youth between the ages of 18 to 21 to be employed in establishments traditionally classified as off-limits to persons under the age of 21." [ 2023 c 158 s 1.]
(1) Except as provided in this section, nothing is construed to permit a nonretail class liquor licensee's employee or intern between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one years to handle, transport, or otherwise possess liquor.
(2) Licensees holding nonretail class liquor licenses are permitted to allow their employees between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one years to stock, merchandise, and handle liquor on or about the:
(a) Nonretail premises if there is an adult twenty-one years of age or older on duty supervising such activities on the premises; and
(b) Retail licensee's premises, except between 11:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m., as long as there is an adult twenty-one years of age or older, employed by the retail licensee, and present at the retail licensee's premises during the activities described in this subsection (2).
(3) Employees of a domestic winery who are at least age 18 but under 21 years of age may engage in wine production and work in a winery's production facility, so long as there is an adult age 21 years of age or older on duty supervising such activities on the premises. Nothing in this subsection authorizes a winery employee under age 21 to taste, consume, sell, or serve wine or liquor.
(4) Any act or omission of the nonretail class liquor licensee's employee occurring at or about the retail licensee's premises, which violates any provision of this title, is the sole responsibility of the nonretail class liquor licensee.
(5) Nothing in this section absolves the retail licensee from responsibility for the acts or omissions of its own employees who violate any provision of this title.
(6)(a) Licensees holding a domestic winery license are permitted to allow their interns who are between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one years old to engage in wine-production related work at the domestic winery's licensed location, so long as the intern is enrolled as a student:
(i) At a community or technical college, regional university, or state university with a special permit issued in accordance with RCW 66.20.010; and
(ii) In a required or elective class as part of a degree program identified in *RCW 66.20.010(12)(b).
(b) Any act or omission of the domestic winery's intern occurring at or about the domestic winery's premises, which violates any provision of this title, is the sole responsibility of the domestic winery.
[ 2021 c 123 s 1; 2019 c 112 s 2; 2015 c 33 s 1; 1995 c 100 s 2. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 66.20.010 was amended by 2025 c 167 s 1, changing subsection (12)(b) to subsection (11)(b).
Any person who transfers in any manner an identification of age to a minor for the purpose of permitting such minor to obtain alcoholic beverages shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable as provided by RCW 9A.20.021, except that a minimum fine of two hundred fifty dollars shall be imposed and any sentence requiring community restitution shall require not fewer than twenty-five hours of community restitution: PROVIDED, That corroborative testimony of a witness other than the minor shall be a condition precedent to conviction.
[ 2002 c 175 s 43; 1987 c 101 s 2; 1961 c 147 s 1. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—2002 c 175: See note following RCW 7.80.130.
Cards of identification: RCW 66.20.170 through 66.20.210.
No person may forge, alter, counterfeit, otherwise prepare or acquire and supply to a person under the age of twenty-one years a facsimile of any of the officially issued cards of identification that are required for presentation under *RCW 66.16.040. A violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor punishable as provided by RCW 9A.20.021 except that a minimum fine of two thousand five hundred dollars shall be imposed.
[ 1987 c 101 s 3. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 66.16.040 was repealed by 2012 c 2 s 215 (Initiative Measure No. 1183).
(1) Employers holding grocery store or beer and/or wine specialty shop licenses exclusively are permitted to allow their employees, between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one years, to sell, stock, and handle liquor in, on or about any establishment holding a license to sell such liquor, if:
(a) There is an adult twenty-one years of age or older on duty supervising the sale of liquor at the licensed premises; and
(b) In the case of spirits, there are at least two adults twenty-one years of age or older on duty supervising the sale of spirits at the licensed premises.
(2) *Employees under twenty-one years of age may make deliveries of beer and/or wine purchased from licensees holding grocery store or beer and/or wine specialty shop licenses exclusively, when delivery is made to cars of customers adjacent to such licensed premises but only, however, when the underage employee is accompanied by the purchaser.
[ 2012 c 2 s 211 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 1999 c 281 s 11; 1986 c 5 s 1; 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 48; 1969 ex.s. c 38 s 1. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: Initiative Measure No. 1183 removed the word "minor" and inserted the phrase "Employees under twenty-one years of age" without enclosing "minor" in double parentheses with strike-through and without underlining "Employees under twenty-one years of age."
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
Notwithstanding provisions of RCW 66.44.310, employees of businesses holding beer and/or wine restaurant; beer and/or wine private club; snack bar; spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; catering; and sports entertainment facility licenses who are between eighteen and twenty-one years of age may take orders for, serve, and sell liquor in any part of the licensed premises except cocktail lounges, bars, or other areas classified by the Washington state liquor and cannabis board as off-limits to persons under twenty-one years of age: PROVIDED, That such employees may enter such restricted areas to perform work assignments including picking up liquor for service in other parts of the licensed premises, performing clean up work, setting up and arranging tables, delivering supplies, delivering messages, serving food, and seating patrons: PROVIDED FURTHER, That such employees remain in the areas off-limits to minors no longer than is necessary to carry out their aforementioned duties: PROVIDED FURTHER, That such employees are not be permitted [are not permitted] to perform activities or functions of a bartender.
[ 2016 c 235 s 16; 2014 c 29 s 4; 1999 c 281 s 12; 1988 c 160 s 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 204 s 1. ]
(1) If a juvenile thirteen years of age or older and under the age of eighteen is found by a court to have committed any offense that is a violation of this chapter, the court shall notify the department of licensing within twenty-four hours after entry of the judgment, unless the offense is the juvenile's first offense in violation of this chapter and has not committed an offense while armed with a firearm, an unlawful possession of a firearm offense, or an offense in violation of chapter 69.41, 69.50, or 69.52 RCW.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (3) of this section, upon petition of a juvenile whose privilege to drive has been revoked pursuant to RCW 46.20.265, the court may notify the department of licensing that the juvenile's privilege to drive should be reinstated.
(3) If the conviction is for the juvenile's first violation of this chapter or chapter 69.41, 69.50, or 69.52 RCW, a juvenile may not petition the court for reinstatement of the juvenile's privilege to drive revoked pursuant to RCW 46.20.265 until the later of ninety days after the date the juvenile turns sixteen or ninety days after the judgment was entered. If the conviction was for the juvenile's second or subsequent violation of this chapter or chapter 69.41, 69.50, or 69.52 RCW, the juvenile may not petition the court for reinstatement of the juvenile's privilege to drive revoked pursuant to RCW 46.20.265 until the later of the date the juvenile turns seventeen or one year after the date judgment was entered.
[ 2016 c 136 s 9; 1989 c 271 s 118; 1988 c 148 s 3. ]
NOTES:
Severability—1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.
Legislative finding—Severability—1988 c 148: See notes following RCW 13.40.265.
No person shall knowingly or wilfully resist or oppose any state, county, or municipal peace officer, or liquor enforcement officer, in the discharge of his/her duties under Title 66 RCW, or aid and abet such resistance or opposition. Any person who violates this section shall be guilty of a violation of this title and subject to arrest by any such officer.
[ 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 27. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1981 1st ex.s. c 5: See RCW 66.98.100.
(1) It is unlawful for a person to use, offer for use, purchase, offer to purchase, sell, offer to sell, or possess powdered alcohol.
(2) Any person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(3) This section does not apply to the use of powdered alcohol for bona fide research purposes by a:
(a) Health care provider that operates primarily for the purposes of conducting scientific research;
(b) State institution of higher education, as defined in RCW 28B.10.016;
(c) Private college or university; or
(d) Pharmaceutical or biotechnology company.
[ 2015 c 193 s 2. ]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—2015 c 193: "The legislature finds that powdered alcohol poses a risk to the public health and safety of children and youth. The legislature intends to minimize this risk by banning the use, purchase, sale, and possession of powdered alcohol, except for bona fide research purposes." [ 2015 c 193 s 1.]
Effective date—2015 c 193: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 7, 2015]." [ 2015 c 193 s 4.]
(1) Nothing contained in chapter 15.88 RCW shall affect the compliance by the Washington wine commission with this chapter.
(2) Nothing contained in chapter 15.89 RCW shall affect the compliance by the Washington beer commission with this chapter.
[ 2006 c 330 s 22; 1987 c 452 s 17. ]
NOTES:
Construction—2006 c 330: See RCW 15.89.900.
Construction—Effective dates—1987 c 452: See RCW 15.88.900 and 15.88.901.
This act may be cited as the "Washington State Liquor Act."
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 1; RRS s 7306-1. ]
If any clause, part, or section of this act shall be adjudged invalid, such judgment shall not affect nor invalidate the remainder of the act, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, part, or section directly involved in the controversy in which such judgment was rendered. If the operation of any clause, part, or section of this act shall be held to impair the obligation of contract, or to deny to any person any right or protection secured to him or her by the Constitution of the United States of America, or by the Constitution of the state of Washington, it is hereby declared that, had the invalidity of such clause, part[,] or section been considered at the time of the enactment of this act, the remainder of the act would nevertheless have been adopted without such and any and all such invalid clauses, parts, or sections.
[ 2012 c 117 s 293; 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 94; RRS s 7306-94. ]
Nothing in this act shall be construed to amend or repeal chapter 2 of the Laws of 1933, or any portion thereof.
[ 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 95; RRS s 7306-95. ]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: 1933 c 2 referred to herein consisted of two sections, section 1 of which is codified as RCW 66.44.320 and section 2 was a repeal of earlier liquor laws.
This act is necessary for the support of the state government and its existing public institutions and shall take effect immediately: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That any person, who shall at the time this act takes effect be the bona fide holder of a license duly issued under *chapter 62, Laws of 1933, extraordinary session, as amended by chapters 13, 80, 158 and 174, Laws of 1935, shall be entitled to exercise the rights and privileges granted by such license until the 30th day of September, 1937: AND PROVIDED FURTHER, That all persons lawfully engaged in activities not required to be licensed prior to the taking effect of this act but which are required to be licensed under the provisions of this act shall have thirty days from and after the taking effect of this act in which to comply with the same.
[ 1937 c 217 s 8; RRS s 7306-97. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: Chapter 62, Laws of 1933, extraordinary session, is the basic liquor act codified in this title. The 1937 act in which it appears amended it.
This act is necessary for the support of the state government and its existing public institutions and shall take effect immediately: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That any person, who shall at the time this act takes effect be the bona fide holder of a license duly issued under *chapter 62, Laws of 1933, extraordinary session, as amended by chapters 13, 80, 158 and 174, Laws of 1935 and chapters 62 and 217, Laws of 1937, shall be entitled to exercise the rights and privileges granted by such license until the 30th day of September, 1939: AND PROVIDED FURTHER, That all persons lawfully engaged in activities not required to be licensed prior to the taking effect of this act but which are required to be licensed under the provisions of this act shall have thirty days from and after the taking effect of this act in which to comply with the same.
[ 1939 c 172 s 11; RRS s 7306-97a. ]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: Chapter 62, Laws of 1933, extraordinary session, is the basic liquor act codified in this title. The 1939 act in which it appears amended it.
Notwithstanding any provisions of chapter 62, Laws of 1933 ex. sess., as last amended, or of any provisions of any other law which may otherwise be applicable, it shall be lawful for the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to sell beer, wine, and spirituous liquor in this state in accordance with the terms of chapter 5, Laws of 1949.
[ 1998 c 126 s 15; 1997 c 321 s 54; 1949 c 5 s 14; No RRS. Formerly: RCW 66.24.460. ]
NOTES:
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.
For the purpose of carrying into effect the provisions of this act, the board shall have the same power to make regulations not inconsistent with the spirit of this act as is provided by RCW 66.08.030.
[ 1949 c 5 s 15; No RRS. Formerly: RCW 66.24.470. ]
This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1981.
[ 1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 51. ]
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