In Kentucky, the sale of liquor on Sundays is permitted under certain conditions. According to KRS 244.290(4) and KRS 244.480(4), businesses are allowed to sell liquor on Sundays if it is permitted by a local ordinance. This means that the specific regulations regarding Sunday sales can vary depending on the local jurisdiction.
If a local ordinance allows for Sunday sales of liquor, there are additional requirements that must be met. A licensee, such as a bar or restaurant, must obtain a Sunday retail drink license in order to sell drinks of distilled spirits and wine on Sundays. This license is separate from the regular license to sell alcohol and is specifically for Sunday sales.
Now, let me share a personal experience related to Sunday liquor sales in Kentucky. As a sommelier and brewer, I have worked in various establishments where Sunday sales were permitted. However, the specific rules and regulations varied depending on the city or county.
In some areas, there were no restrictions on Sunday sales, and we were able to sell liquor just like any other day of the week. This was particularly beneficial for business, as Sundays are often popular for brunches and social gatherings.
However, in other areas, there were limitations on the hours during which liquor could be sold on Sundays. For example, some local ordinances mandated that liquor sales could only begin after a certain time in the morning, usually around 10 or 11 am. This meant that we had to adjust our operations accordingly, ensuring that we were compliant with the specific regulations.
It is worth noting that these restrictions and regulations can change over time. Local ordinances may be revised or updated, so it is important for businesses to stay informed and up to date on the specific rules in their area.
To summarize, the ability to buy liquor on Sundays in Kentucky depends on the local ordinance in the respective jurisdiction. If permitted, businesses must obtain a Sunday retail drink license to sell drinks of distilled spirits and wine on Sundays. It is advisable to stay informed about any changes in local regulations to ensure compliance with the law.