What time can you buy alcohol in NE?

Answered by Dustin Gorski

In the state of Nebraska, the sale of is regulated by state laws. Specifically, the time at which you can purchase alcohol depends on the type of establishment and the day of the week. Let's delve into the details of when and where you can buy alcohol in Nebraska.

1. On-Sale and Off-Sale Licensees:
The law distinguishes between on-sale and off-sale licensees. On-sale licensees are establishments where alcohol is consumed on the premises, such as bars and restaurants. Off-sale licensees are establishments where alcohol is sold for consumption off the premises, such as liquor stores.

2. General Hours of Sale:
Alcohol sales are generally permitted from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day, seven days a week. During this time frame, both on-sale and off-sale licensees can sell alcoholic beverages to customers.

3. Exceptions to General Hours:
There are a few exceptions to the general hours of sale, where certain establishments may have different rules. For instance:

– Casinos: In Nebraska, some casinos are exempt from the general hours of sale and can serve alcohol at any time, day or night. This exemption is primarily intended to accommodate the needs of casino patrons.
– Special Events: During certain special events, such as fairs or festivals, temporary permits may be issued allowing alcohol sales outside the usual hours. These permits are usually granted within specific timeframes and locations.

4. Restrictions on Late-Night Sales:
In compliance with state law, any sale, gift, or delivery of alcohol between the hours of 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. is prohibited. This applies to both on-sale and off-sale licensees. Violating these restrictions is considered a misdemeanor offense.

5. Individual County Regulations:
It's important to note that individual counties within Nebraska may have additional regulations regarding the sale of alcohol. Some counties may choose to restrict alcohol sales further or have different hours of operation. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the specific county's laws and regulations to ensure compliance.

In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered situations where the restricted hours of alcohol sales have posed challenges. Particularly, when organizing events or gatherings that extend late into the night, it becomes crucial to plan ahead and ensure that alcohol is purchased and served within the permitted hours.

To summarize, in Nebraska, alcohol can generally be purchased from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. However, there are exceptions for certain establishments like casinos and special events. Sales, gifts, or deliveries of alcohol between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. are strictly prohibited. It is always advisable to check with the specific county regulations for any additional restrictions or differing hours of operation.