No, you generally cannot sell drinks in open containers with a package liquor license in Nevada.
A package liquor license authorizes the sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premises where they are purchased. This type of license specifically permits the sale of alcohol in its original, manufacturer-sealed containers.
Understanding Package Liquor Licenses
The fundamental purpose of a package liquor license is to facilitate the sale of beverages that are ready for transport and consumption elsewhere, rather than for immediate enjoyment on-site.
- Original Sealed Containers: Under the provisions governing such licenses, each alcoholic beverage sold or delivered must be in its original manufacturer-sealed container. This crucial requirement ensures that the product remains untouched and regulated until it reaches the consumer's intended location for consumption.
- Off-Premise Consumption: The term "package" itself signifies that the alcohol is packaged for carry-out. This is distinct from licenses for establishments like bars, restaurants, or taverns that are specifically permitted to serve drinks for consumption on their premises.
Key Distinctions in Alcohol Licensing
Nevada's alcohol licensing framework distinguishes between various types of permits based on where and how alcohol is consumed:
| License Type | Purpose | Container Type for Sale | Consumption Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package Liquor License | Sale for consumption off the premises | Sealed, Original | Off-premise |
| On-Premise Consumption License | Sale for consumption on the premises | Open (prepared drinks) | On-premise (e.g., bars, restaurants) |
| Resort Hotel License | Broader scope, including on-premise sales and potentially gaming, often with specific definitions. | Both (sealed and open) | Both (on and off-premise, depending on specific permit) |
Practical Implications
For businesses holding a package liquor license, adhering to these regulations is paramount:
- Retail Sales: This license is typical for liquor stores, grocery stores, and convenience stores where customers buy bottles, cans, or other sealed packages to take home.
- No On-Site Opening or Pouring: Employees of establishments with only a package liquor license are generally not permitted to open containers for customers, pour drinks, or allow consumption on the premises.
- Delivery Services: If a package liquor license holder also offers delivery, the same rule applies: all delivered alcoholic beverages must be in their original, manufacturer-sealed containers. This ensures compliance with sales and delivery restrictions, maintaining the integrity of the product and preventing unauthorized open-container consumption during transit.
In summary, a package liquor license in Nevada is designed for the retail sale of sealed alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption, making the sale of drinks in open containers impermissible under this specific license type.
