Original Author: Darden, Don
Date of Material: 04/14/2003
Subjects(s):
Alcoholic beverages--Laws and regulations
Businesses--Laws and regulations--Tennessee
Children and youth
Curfew
Questions on Businesses Selling Liquor
Reviewed Date: 07/23/2021
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MTAS was asked whether the city board could change the hours for selling liquor; if local businesses are required to close at 3:00 AM; and if minors are required to leave places where liquor is sold at 10:00 PM.
MTAS advised that the State Alcoholic Beverage Commission is authorized to extend the hours, and the city may by resolution opt out of the extension. There are no State statutes authorizing the city to constrict the times for selling alcoholic beverages.
A business that sells alcohol can stay open 24 hours per day but must abide by State statutes for times in which alcohol may be sold.
MTAS could find no authorization for requiring persons under 21 years of age to leave a business at 10:00 PM where liquor is sold. An 18 year old has the same rights as a 21 year old, except that he/she may not purchase alcoholic beverages.
Don J. Darden
Municipal Management Consultant
1-615-532-2588 (or mobile--615-476-6943)
e-mail dardend@tennessee.edu
www.mtas.utk.edu