Bar Checks

Regular on-premise bar checks will help to:

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• Identify and address existing or potential issues.

• Develop positive working relationships with staff and educate them about their responsibilities.

• Create an environment for the licensee to comply with laws and regulations governing the sale and service of alcohol.​

 

The goal of bar checks is voluntary compliance by both the licensee and patrons. By conducting high-visibility inspections, the general public and the retail community understand that their compliance with the alcohol laws is being monitored, thereby increasing the deterrent effect of violating these laws. When law enforcement is conducting on-premise bar checks, they are generally looking for the following types of violations:

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• Sale and service to a minor

• Sale and service to an intoxicated person

• Failure to post required permits, licenses, or notices

• Failure to have approved manager on the premises

• Health or fire code violations

• Illegal gambling

• Open containers leaving premises

• Drinking on the property

• Underage persons soliciting the purchase of alcohol by adults

• Fighting/disorderly conduct

• Sales after legal hours

• Loitering

 

A reasonable time frame to conduct a premise inspection is usually about twenty minutes or less. This is an enforcement strategy that can be done either in uniform or as plainclothes officers.

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