ILCC: Restaurants with “Combined” Liquor Licenses Permitted to Sell Alcohol for Carry Out, Pick Up, and Delivery
Following Governor Pritzker’s Executive Order that mandates the closure of on-premise dining in Illinois restaurants (but permits carry out/take out/to-go food), the IRA has gained further clarification from the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) about what operations are permitted for restaurants that have a liquor license.
Last night, ILCC issued a Compliance Directive which confirms that “combined” on and off-premises liquor license holders may sell packaged alcoholic liquor. This means a restaurant with the proper liquor license may sell unopened packages of beer, wine, or spirits to customers for carry out or take out. However, no open containers of alcohol can be sold to customers by combined liquor license holders. Furthermore, “combined” liquor license holders are permitted to sell and deliver unopened, packaged alcohol to a private home.
Click here to read the full FAQ from ILCC. Businesses that are unsure about the classification of their state liquor license should contact the ILCC for additional information.
The IRA commends the state of Illinois for working with our hospitality community to ensure flexible, commonsense practices that allow Illinois’ restaurants to stay open and serve communities during this crisis.
City of Chicago – Incidental Liquor Licensed Restaurants Permitted to Sell Alcohol for Carry Out, Pick Up, and Delivery
The IRA has also obtained updated guidance related to the sale of alcohol by restaurants in Chicago from the City of Chicago’s Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP).
The city’s guidance confirms that restaurants with a Consumption on Premises-Incidental Activity liquor license can sell and deliver alcohol in Chicago, under the following conditions:
- Consumption on premises-incidental activity and tavern liquor licensees in the City of Chicago can sell and deliver incidental packaged goods liquor. By definition they have local approval.
- Liquor sales and delivery must occur during liquor sale hours as defined in the Municipal Code 4-60-130.
- Licensees must verify proof of age.
- No cash on delivery; the transaction must take place at the retail licensee
- Only sealed packaged goods in their original container (no to-go cups) can be sold or delivered
- Additional restrictions on delivery may apply to those who are licensed by the State as brew pubs, distilling pubs and manufacturers. These businesses should contact the ILCC for additional information.
Click here to read the updated FAQ from BACP.
The IRA appreciates the City of Chicago’s collaborative work to provide clear guidance on these important operational questions for local restaurants.