information from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board
Restricted pre-mixed cocktails are now allowed for curbside pick-up or delivery During COVID-19 Stay Home – Stay Healthy Order.
In addition to the current delivery allowances, effective immediately, restaurants with a Spirits, Beer, and Wine (S/B/W) license issued by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) may sell pre-mixed alcoholic drinks (“cocktails”) for consumption off the licensed premises during the COVID-19 Stay Home – Stay Healthy Order (No. 20-25).
Requirements
In order to sell pre-mixed cocktails to-go, an S/B/W licensee must:
- Ensure that a bona fide complete meal is ordered with the pre-mixed cocktail order. “Complete meal” is defined at WAC 314-02-035, and must be prepared on the S/B/W restaurant’s premises;
- Package the pre-mixed cocktail in a container with a secure lid or cap and in a manner designed to prevent consumption without removal of the lid or cap. For example, lids with sipping holes or openings for straws are not allowed. Styrofoam and plastic cups, even if sealed over with tape or other materials, are not allowed. Some examples may be found here;
- Deliver pre-mixed spirits in the trunk of the vehicle or beyond the immediate reach of the driver;
- Guarantee that delivery is made by a person 21 or over that is an employee of the business and holds a MAST permit;
- Guarantee that the person accepting the order or delivery is 21 or over; and
- Prominently post the following warning in a manner that puts consumers on notice of limitations regarding open container laws:
Customer Notice
Pre-mixed alcoholic beverages that are packaged by this establishment may not be consumed in a motor vehicle or transported in a motor vehicle except in the vehicle’s trunk; or, if there is no trunk, in some other area of the vehicle not normally occupied by the driver or passengers (this does not include a utility compartment or glove compartment, but may include underneath a seat outside of the driver’s reach). RCW 46.61.519.
Note: “Post” means to prominently display on the premises, post online, or present in whatever manner is necessary to ensure that the consumer purchasing, or delivery person transporting, such beverages is given notice of this warning.
Expiration
This allowance will expire within 30 days following the county where the business is located entering Phase 4 of Washington’s Safe Start plan.
