Can You Buy Beer on Sundays in North Carolina? A Guide to Sunday Alcohol Sales
*Yes, in many locations throughout North Carolina, you *can* buy beer on Sundays*. However, *certain* restrictions apply regarding the time of day and the type of establishment permitted to sell alcohol on Sundays. This largely depends on local ordinances and whether you’re buying at a restaurant, grocery store, or ABC store (which remain closed on Sundays).
The History of Sunday Alcohol Sales in North Carolina
North Carolina’s relationship with alcohol sales has been long and complex, steeped in the history of temperance movements and evolving societal norms. For decades, the state maintained a strong grip on alcohol regulation, largely prohibiting Sunday sales. This stemmed from historical blue laws designed to enforce religious standards on the day of rest. However, starting in 2017, a gradual shift began, driven by consumer demand, the growth of the craft brewing industry, and the desire for parity with neighboring states. The brisk economic activity in Virginia, which has more relaxed alcohol laws, further encouraged reform.
The “Brunch Bill” and Its Impact
The game-changer was the passage of Senate Bill 155, commonly known as the “Brunch Bill.” This legislation authorized cities and counties to allow restaurants and other establishments with permits to sell mixed beverages (liquor) to begin alcohol sales as early as 10 a.m. on Sundays. Prior to this, the law generally prohibited the sale of alcoholic beverages before noon on Sundays. The law’s implementation was contingent upon approval via local referendums.
Understanding Local Options and Referendums
The “Brunch Bill” didn’t automatically allow Sunday morning alcohol sales statewide. Instead, it empowered individual cities and counties to decide whether to permit it. Local governing boards could opt to put the question to a vote in a referendum.
- Referendum Process: Local governments placed the Sunday sales question on the ballot during regularly scheduled elections.
- Voter Decision: Residents of the city or county voted directly on whether to authorize Sunday morning alcohol sales.
- Implementation: If a majority of voters approved the referendum, the local government could then enact ordinances permitting Sunday sales starting at 10 a.m.
This decentralized approach resulted in a patchwork of regulations across North Carolina. Some areas embraced the change, while others opted to maintain stricter Sunday alcohol laws.
Where Can You Buy Beer on Sundays?
The location where you can legally purchase beer on Sunday depends heavily on local regulations:
- Restaurants and Bars: In areas that have passed referendums, restaurants and bars with the proper permits can sell beer (and mixed beverages) starting as early as 10 a.m.
- Grocery Stores and Convenience Stores: In most locations that allow Sunday alcohol sales at all, grocery stores and convenience stores can sell beer and wine beginning at noon. This is often the default position, even if the “Brunch Bill” wasn’t implemented.
- ABC Stores: North Carolina’s Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) stores, which are state-run, remain closed on Sundays statewide. Therefore, you cannot purchase liquor from an ABC store on Sundays.
Checking Local Regulations: A Critical Step
Given the variations in local laws, it’s crucial to verify the specific regulations in your area before attempting to purchase beer on a Sunday. Check the city or county government’s website, or contact the local ABC board for clarification.
Tips for Navigating Sunday Alcohol Sales in North Carolina
- Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll need beer on a Sunday, check local regulations beforehand.
- Check the Time: Be mindful of the legal sale times. Typically, stores and restaurants cannot sell alcohol before noon (or 10 a.m. in “Brunch Bill” areas).
- ABC Store Closure: Remember that ABC stores are always closed on Sundays, so liquor purchases require advance planning.
- Verify Permits: Ensure the establishment you’re buying from has the necessary permits to sell alcohol on Sundays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I buy beer at a grocery store on Sunday morning in Raleigh?
It depends on the specific location within Raleigh. Generally, grocery stores in Raleigh can sell beer starting at noon on Sundays. However, some areas of Raleigh may permit beer sales starting at 10:00 AM at restaurants. It’s best to check the specific county ordinances for confirmation.
Are there any North Carolina counties where you still can’t buy beer on Sundays?
Yes, there are a few counties, primarily in more rural and traditionally conservative areas, where Sunday alcohol sales are still prohibited entirely or very restricted. These are becoming increasingly rare.
Does the “Brunch Bill” affect the hours for selling beer in grocery stores, or just in restaurants?
The “Brunch Bill” primarily affected restaurants and establishments with mixed beverage permits, allowing them to begin alcohol sales earlier (10 a.m. instead of noon). It didn’t directly change the hours for beer and wine sales in grocery and convenience stores, which generally still begin at noon in many areas.
If a city voted against the “Brunch Bill” referendum, can they try again later?
Yes, a city or county can choose to put the referendum on the ballot again in a subsequent election. The decision to allow Sunday sales can be revisited if community attitudes change.
Can I buy beer at a brewery taproom on Sunday in North Carolina?
If the brewery holds the appropriate permits and the location allows Sunday sales, yes, you can buy beer at a brewery taproom on Sundays. The time limitations (noon, or 10 a.m. in “Brunch Bill” areas) still apply.
Are there different rules for buying wine on Sundays compared to beer?
In most cases, the rules are the same for beer and wine regarding Sunday sales hours. Grocery stores and convenience stores typically sell both beer and wine starting at noon (or potentially 10:00 AM at restaurants in some areas).
What is the penalty for selling alcohol illegally on a Sunday?
Selling alcohol outside of the permitted hours or without the proper licenses can result in significant fines, suspension or revocation of alcohol permits, and potential criminal charges.
Does the “Brunch Bill” allow liquor sales before noon on Sundays?
No, the “Brunch Bill” specifically addresses the sale of mixed beverages (liquor) in restaurants and bars. It does not permit the sale of liquor in ABC stores or other retail outlets before noon on Sundays.
How can I find out if my local restaurant sells alcohol on Sunday mornings?
The easiest way is to contact the restaurant directly and ask about their Sunday alcohol sales hours. You can also check their website or social media pages, as many restaurants advertise their brunch services and associated alcohol sales.
Do all restaurants automatically qualify to sell alcohol at 10 a.m. on Sundays in areas that passed the “Brunch Bill”?
No. Restaurants must possess a valid mixed beverage permit and the location must allow it. Not all restaurants have this type of permit.
What happens if I purchase alcohol before the legal time on a Sunday?
Purchasing or possessing alcohol before the legal sale time on a Sunday can result in fines and confiscation of the alcohol. The seller also faces penalties.
Is there a movement to completely repeal all Sunday alcohol restrictions in North Carolina?
While there is some support for further liberalization of alcohol laws, including eliminating Sunday sales restrictions entirely, there’s no widespread political momentum currently to completely repeal all such regulations. The focus remains on incremental changes and local control.