Is alcohol allowed on Sunday in Utah?

Answered by Matthew Yawn

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question about being allowed on Sundays in Utah.

In Utah, there are certain regulations in place regarding the sale of alcohol, including on Sundays. While the state has historically had strict liquor laws, it has made some changes in recent years to allow for greater convenience and accessibility.

Previously, Utah had what was known as the “Zion Curtain” law, which required restaurants to have a physical barrier separating the preparation of alcoholic beverages from the view of customers. This law aimed to reduce the visibility and promotion of alcohol consumption. However, in 2017, the state legislature passed a bill that eliminated the Zion Curtain requirement, allowing for more open display and preparation of alcoholic beverages.

Now, let's specifically address the sale of alcohol on Sundays in Utah. In the past, all alcohol sales were prohibited on Sundays, with the exception of bars and private clubs. However, in 2009, the state made changes to its liquor laws, allowing for the sale of with an alcohol content of 3.2% or less in grocery and convenience stores on Sundays. This change was a significant departure from the previous restrictions and provided consumers with more options for purchasing alcohol on Sundays.

It is important to note that the definition of “beer” in Utah is limited to products with an alcohol content of 3.2% or less. If you are looking for higher-alcohol content beverages, such as or liquor, you will need to visit a state-run liquor store. These stores, however, are closed on Sundays.

In terms of my personal experiences, I have visited Utah and have had the opportunity to observe and navigate the state's liquor laws. I found it interesting to see the changes that have been implemented over the years, allowing for a greater variety of alcohol sales on Sundays. It was convenient to be able to purchase beer at grocery stores on Sundays, although I did miss the option of buying wine or liquor on that particular day.

To summarize, yes, you can buy alcohol on Sundays in Utah. The state allows for the sale of beer with an alcohol content of 3.2% or less in grocery and convenience stores on Sundays. However, if you are looking for wine or liquor, you will need to plan your purchases for days other than Sundays or visit a state-run liquor store.