The Lone Star State has long been known for its complex and often confusing liquor laws. For years, Texans have been unable to purchase liquor on Sundays, but recent changes have left many wondering if this is still the case. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Texas liquor laws, explore the current state of Sunday liquor sales, and provide guidance on what you can and can’t buy on a Sunday in Texas.
A Brief History of Texas Liquor Laws
Texas has a long and complex history when it comes to liquor laws. Prior to Prohibition, the state had a relatively relaxed approach to alcohol sales, but the passage of the 18th Amendment in 1919 brought an end to this. When Prohibition was repealed in 1933, Texas adopted a number of laws regulating the sale of liquor, including a ban on Sunday sales.
This ban was in place for over 80 years, with some minor exceptions. In 2017, the Texas Legislature passed a bill allowing liquor stores to open on Sundays, but only in certain circumstances. The bill, known as Senate Bill 738, permitted liquor stores to open on Sundays in counties with a population of over 1 million people.
Current State of Sunday Liquor Sales in Texas
So, can you buy liquor in Texas on Sunday now? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. As of 2022, liquor stores in Texas are allowed to open on Sundays, but only in counties with a population of over 1 million people. This means that if you live in a major city like Houston, Dallas, or San Antonio, you should be able to buy liquor on a Sunday.
However, there are some important exceptions to be aware of. While liquor stores may be open on Sundays, they are still subject to certain restrictions. For example:
- Liquor stores must close by 10pm on Sundays, whereas they can stay open until 10pm on weekdays and 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Some counties may still have stricter laws, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local liquor store to confirm their hours.
- Not all types of liquor are available for purchase on Sundays. For example, some specialty wines and spirits may only be available for purchase on weekdays.
What Types of Liquor Can You Buy on a Sunday in Texas?
While there may be some restrictions on the types of liquor available for purchase on Sundays, you should still be able to find a wide range of options. Here are some examples of the types of liquor you can buy on a Sunday in Texas:
- Beer and wine: These are widely available for purchase on Sundays, and you can find them at most liquor stores and grocery stores.
- Liquor and spirits: Most types of liquor and spirits are available for purchase on Sundays, including vodka, whiskey, rum, and tequila.
- Cocktail mixers and other accessories: You can also buy cocktail mixers, garnishes, and other accessories on Sundays.
What About Online Liquor Sales?
With the rise of online shopping, many people are wondering if they can buy liquor online in Texas on a Sunday. The answer is yes, but with some caveats. While you can buy liquor online in Texas, there are some restrictions to be aware of:
- Online liquor sales are only available in certain counties, so you’ll need to check with the retailer to confirm that they deliver to your area.
- Some online retailers may not offer Sunday delivery, so be sure to check their delivery policies before making a purchase.
- Online liquor sales are subject to the same laws and regulations as in-store sales, so you’ll need to be 21 or older to make a purchase.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Can you buy liquor in Texas on Sunday now?” is yes, but with some caveats. While liquor stores in Texas are now allowed to open on Sundays, there are still some restrictions to be aware of, including limited hours and availability of certain types of liquor. By understanding the current state of Sunday liquor sales in Texas, you can plan your shopping trip and ensure that you’re able to find the liquor you need.
Final Tips and Reminders
Before you head out to buy liquor on a Sunday in Texas, here are a few final tips and reminders to keep in mind:
- Always check with your local liquor store to confirm their hours, as these can vary depending on the location and type of store.
- Be aware of any local laws or regulations that may affect liquor sales, such as dry counties or restricted hours.
- Always drink responsibly and never drink and drive, as this can have serious consequences for yourself and others.
By following these tips and staying informed about the current state of Sunday liquor sales in Texas, you can enjoy your favorite drinks while also staying safe and responsible.
Can you buy liquor in Texas on Sunday?
In Texas, liquor stores are allowed to operate on Sundays, but with certain restrictions. According to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), liquor stores can open on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, but only if they are located in a county with a population of 1,000 or more. However, it’s essential to note that not all liquor stores may choose to operate on Sundays, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm their hours before visiting.
Additionally, while liquor stores can sell liquor on Sundays, other types of businesses, such as grocery stores and convenience stores, are still prohibited from selling liquor on Sundays. This is due to a state law that restricts the sale of liquor on Sundays, except for liquor stores that meet the population requirement. If you’re looking to purchase liquor on a Sunday, it’s best to visit a dedicated liquor store to ensure availability.
What are the hours of operation for liquor stores in Texas?
Liquor stores in Texas are allowed to operate during specific hours, which vary depending on the day of the week. On Mondays through Saturdays, liquor stores can open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On Sundays, as mentioned earlier, they can open from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, but only if they meet the population requirement. It’s essential to note that these hours are subject to change, and individual liquor stores may choose to operate within these hours or close earlier.
It’s also worth noting that liquor stores are closed on certain holidays, including New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. If you’re planning to visit a liquor store on a holiday, it’s best to call ahead and confirm their hours before heading out. You can also check the TABC website for more information on liquor store hours and holiday closures.
Can I buy liquor online in Texas?
In Texas, it is possible to buy liquor online, but there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met. According to the TABC, liquor stores can sell liquor online, but only if they have a physical storefront in the state. Online liquor sales are also subject to the same hours of operation as physical liquor stores, meaning that online sales are not allowed on Sundays in counties with a population of less than 1,000.
When buying liquor online in Texas, it’s essential to ensure that the seller is a licensed liquor store with a physical storefront in the state. You can check the TABC website to verify the license of the seller. Additionally, online liquor sales are subject to the same taxes and fees as in-store sales, and the buyer must be at least 21 years old to purchase liquor online.
Can I return or exchange liquor in Texas?
In Texas, liquor stores are not required to accept returns or exchanges of liquor, but some stores may have their own return and exchange policies. According to the TABC, liquor stores can establish their own policies for returns and exchanges, as long as they are not in conflict with state law. If you’re looking to return or exchange liquor, it’s best to check with the store directly to see if they have a return or exchange policy in place.
It’s also worth noting that some liquor stores may have specific requirements or restrictions for returns and exchanges, such as requiring the original receipt or packaging. If you’re unsure about a store’s return or exchange policy, it’s always best to call ahead and ask before visiting the store.
Can I buy liquor in Texas if I’m under 21?
No, in Texas, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase liquor. According to the TABC, it is a crime to sell or serve liquor to anyone under the age of 21, and liquor stores are required to verify the age of customers before making a sale. If you’re under 21, you will not be able to purchase liquor in Texas, even with parental consent.
Additionally, it’s also a crime to attempt to purchase liquor if you’re under 21, and you could face fines and penalties if you’re caught. If you’re under 21, it’s best to wait until you’re of legal drinking age to purchase liquor in Texas.
Can I bring liquor from another state into Texas?
In Texas, it is generally allowed to bring liquor from another state into the state, but there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met. According to the TABC, individuals can bring liquor into Texas for personal consumption, but they must comply with state laws and regulations. For example, you may be required to pay taxes on the liquor you bring into the state, and you may be limited in the amount of liquor you can bring in.
It’s also worth noting that some states have laws that restrict the transportation of liquor across state lines, so it’s essential to check the laws of the state you’re coming from before bringing liquor into Texas. Additionally, if you’re bringing liquor into Texas for commercial purposes, such as for resale, you will need to obtain a permit from the TABC and comply with state laws and regulations.
Can I sell liquor in Texas without a license?
No, in Texas, it is a crime to sell liquor without a license. According to the TABC, anyone who sells liquor without a license can face fines and penalties, including imprisonment. To sell liquor in Texas, you must obtain a license from the TABC, which requires meeting certain requirements and paying fees.
Additionally, selling liquor without a license can also put you at risk of civil liability, as you may be held responsible for any damages or injuries caused by the sale of liquor. If you’re interested in selling liquor in Texas, it’s essential to obtain a license from the TABC and comply with state laws and regulations.