Index
Consumer ProtectionPennsylvania, USA

Pennsylvania State Store Liquor Laws

Summary

Pennsylvania has some of the strictest alcohol monopolies in the country, operating as a 'Control State' where the government owns and operates all retail liquor stores.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    You cannot buy hard liquor or spirits (like vodka or whiskey) in a grocery store or private business. You MUST buy it at a state-owned 'Fine Wine & Good Spirits' store operated by the PA Liquor Control Board.
  • 02.
    Because of a 2016 reform, you can now buy limited amounts of wine and beer at approved grocery stores and gas stations, but you must pay at a dedicated cash register.
  • 03.
    You can only buy up to 192 ounces of beer (two 6-packs) in a single transaction at a grocery store or convenience store.
  • 04.
    To buy a keg or a full case of beer, you must go to a privately-owned 'Beer Distributor.'

Penalties

  • 01.
    Transporting untaxed liquor across the state border from a cheaper state (like Delaware or Maryland) into Pennsylvania is technically 'bootlegging' and is a criminal offense subject to fines and confiscation.

Verified Citations

Pennsylvania Liquor Code (Act 21 of 1951)

Source
"The board shall have the power and its duty shall be... To buy, import or have in its possession for sale, and sell liquor and alcohol in the manner set forth in this act..."