RCW 66.24.010
Licensure
—
Issuance
—
Conditions and restrictions
—
Limitations
—
Temporary licenses.
(1) Every license must be issued in the name of the applicant, and the holder thereof may not allow any other person to use the license.
(2) For the purpose of considering any application for a license, or the renewal of a license, the board may cause an inspection of the premises to be made, and may inquire into all matters in connection with the construction and operation of the premises. For the purpose of reviewing any application for a license and for considering the denial, suspension, revocation, or renewal or denial thereof, of any license, the board may consider any prior criminal conduct of the applicant including an administrative violation history record with the board and a criminal history record information check. The board may submit the criminal history record information check to the Washington state patrol and to the identification division of the federal bureau of investigation in order that these agencies may search their records for prior arrests and convictions of the individual or individuals who filled out the forms. The board must require fingerprinting of any applicant whose criminal history record information check is submitted to the federal bureau of investigation. The provisions of RCW 9.95.240
and of chapter
9.96A
RCW do not apply to such cases. Subject to the provisions of this section, the board may, in its discretion, grant or deny the renewal or license applied for. Denial may be based on, without limitation, the existence of chronic illegal activity documented in objections submitted pursuant to subsections (8)(d) and (12) of this section. Authority to approve an uncontested or unopposed license may be granted by the board to any staff member the board designates in writing. Conditions for granting such authority must be adopted by rule. No retail license of any kind may be issued to:
(a) A person doing business as a sole proprietor who has not resided in the state for at least one month prior to receiving a license, except in cases of licenses issued to dining places on railroads, boats, or aircraft;
(b) A copartnership, unless all of the members thereof are qualified to obtain a license, as provided in this section;
(c) A person whose place of business is conducted by a manager or agent, unless such manager or agent possesses the same qualifications required of the licensee;
(d) A corporation or a limited liability company, unless it was created under the laws of the state of Washington or holds a certificate of authority to transact business in the state of Washington.
(3)(a) The board may, in its discretion, subject to the provisions of RCW 66.08.150, suspend or cancel any license; and all rights of the licensee to keep or sell liquor thereunder must be suspended or terminated, as the case may be.
(b) The board must immediately suspend the license or certificate of a person who has been certified pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320
by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for reinstatement during the suspension, reissuance of the license or certificate is automatic upon the board's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the licensee is in compliance with the order.
(c) Upon written notification by the department of revenue in accordance with RCW 82.08.155
that a person is more than thirty days delinquent in reporting or remitting spirits taxes to the department, the board must suspend all spirits licenses held by that person. The board must also refuse to renew any existing spirits license of, or issue any new spirits license to, the person or any other applicant controlled directly or indirectly by that person. The board may not reinstate a person's spirits license or renew or issue a new spirits license to that person, or an applicant controlled directly or indirectly by that person, until such time as the department of revenue notifies the board that the person is current in reporting and remitting spirits taxes or that the department consents to the reinstatement or renewal of the person's spirits license or the issuance of a new spirits license to the person. For purposes of this section: (i) "Spirits license" means any license issued by the board under the authority of this chapter that authorizes the licensee to sell spirits; and (ii) "spirits taxes" has the same meaning as in RCW 82.08.155
.
(d) The board may request the appointment of administrative law judges under chapter
34.12
RCW who must have power to administer oaths, issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses and the production of papers, books, accounts, documents, and testimony, examine witnesses, and to receive testimony in any inquiry, investigation, hearing, or proceeding in any part of the state, under such rules and regulations as the board may adopt.
(e) Witnesses are allowed fees and mileage each way to and from any such inquiry, investigation, hearing, or proceeding at the rate authorized by RCW 34.05.446
. Fees need not be paid in advance of appearance of witnesses to testify or to produce books, records, or other legal evidence.
(f) In case of disobedience of any person to comply with the order of the board or a subpoena issued by the board, or any of its members, or administrative law judges, or on the refusal of a witness to testify to any matter regarding which he or she may be lawfully interrogated, the judge of the superior court of the county in which the person resides, on application of any member of the board or administrative law judge, must compel obedience by contempt proceedings, as in the case of disobedience of the requirements of a subpoena issued from said court or a refusal to testify therein.
(4) Upon receipt of notice of the suspension or cancellation of a license, the licensee must forthwith deliver up the license to the board. Where the license has been suspended only, the board must return the license to the licensee at the expiration or termination of the period of suspension. The board must notify all vendors in the city or place where the licensee has its premises of the suspension or cancellation of the license; and no employee may allow or cause any liquor to be delivered to or for any person at the premises of that licensee.
(5)(a) For the original issuance of a liquor license, including the approval of a conditional license as provided in (b) of this subsection, the board must set the expiration date of the license to the last day of the calendar month that is twelve months from the calendar month in which final approval of the license is granted. Upon renewal, the expiration date of the license, including licenses approved under (b) of this subsection, may subsequently be prorated as necessary in accordance with chapter
19.02
RCW.
(b)(i) When an applicant for a liquor license is qualified for approval of the license in every way except having executed a lease or purchase agreement for the proposed licensed premises, the board must grant conditional approval to the applicant.
(ii) Upon notification to the board of execution of the lease or purchase agreement putting the applicant in control of the premises, the board must immediately grant final approval of the license issuance, and the licensee may immediately begin exercising all privileges provided under the license, except as otherwise provided under this title.
(iii) For the purposes of this title, the term "license" includes "conditional license."
(6) Every license issued under this section is subject to all conditions and restrictions imposed by this title or by rules adopted by the board. All conditions and restrictions imposed by the board in the issuance of an individual license may be listed on the face of the individual license along with the trade name, address, and expiration date. Conditions and restrictions imposed by the board may also be included in official correspondence separate from the license. All spirits licenses are subject to the condition that the spirits license holder must report and remit to the department of revenue all spirits taxes by the date due.
(7) Every licensee must post and keep posted its license, or licenses, and any additional correspondence containing conditions and restrictions imposed by the board in a conspicuous place on the premises.
(8)(a) Unless (b) of this subsection applies, before the board issues a new or renewal license to an applicant it must give notice of such application to the chief executive officer of the incorporated city or town, if the application is for a license within an incorporated city or town, or to the county legislative authority, if the application is for a license outside the boundaries of incorporated cities or towns.
(b) If the application for a special occasion license is for an event held during a county, district, or area fair as defined by RCW 15.76.120, and the county, district, or area fair is located on property owned by the county but located within an incorporated city or town, the county legislative authority must be the entity notified by the board under (a) of this subsection. The board must send a duplicate notice to the incorporated city or town within which the fair is located.
(c) The incorporated city or town through the official or employee selected by it, or the county legislative authority or the official or employee selected by it, has the right to file with the board within twenty days after the date of transmittal of such notice for applications, or at least thirty days prior to the expiration date for renewals, written objections against the applicant or against the premises for which the new or renewal license is asked. The board may extend the time period for submitting written objections.
(d) The written objections must include a statement of all facts upon which such objections are based, and in case written objections are filed, the city or town or county legislative authority may request and the board may in its discretion hold a hearing subject to the applicable provisions of Title
34
RCW. If the board makes an initial decision to deny a license or renewal based on the written objections of an incorporated city or town or county legislative authority, the applicant may request a hearing subject to the applicable provisions of Title
34
RCW. If such a hearing is held at the request of the applicant, board representatives must present and defend the board's initial decision to deny a license or renewal.
(e) Upon the granting of a license under this title the board must send written notification to the chief executive officer of the incorporated city or town in which the license is granted, or to the county legislative authority if the license is granted outside the boundaries of incorporated cities or towns. When the license is for a special occasion license for an event held during a county, district, or area fair as defined by RCW 15.76.120, and the county, district, or area fair is located on county-owned property but located within an incorporated city or town, the written notification must be sent to both the incorporated city or town and the county legislative authority.
(9)(a) Before the board issues any license to any applicant, it shall give (i) due consideration to the location of the business to be conducted under such license with respect to the proximity of churches, schools, and public institutions and (ii) written notice, with receipt verification, of the application to public institutions identified by the board as appropriate to receive such notice, churches, and schools within five hundred feet of the premises to be licensed. The board may not issue a liquor license for either on-premises or off-premises consumption covering any premises not now licensed, if such premises are within five hundred feet of the premises of any tax-supported public elementary or secondary school measured along the most direct route over or across established public walks, streets, or other public passageway from the main entrance of the school to the nearest public entrance of the premises proposed for license, and if, after receipt by the school of the notice as provided in this subsection, the board receives written objection, within twenty days after receiving such notice, from an official representative or representatives of the school within five hundred feet of said proposed licensed premises, indicating to the board that there is an objection to the issuance of such license because of proximity to a school. The board may extend the time period for submitting objections. For the purpose of this section, "church" means a building erected for and used exclusively for religious worship and schooling or other activity in connection therewith. For the purpose of this section, "public institution" means institutions of higher education, parks, community centers, libraries, and transit centers.
(b) No liquor license may be issued or reissued by the board to any motor sports facility or licensee operating within the motor sports facility unless the motor sports facility enforces a program reasonably calculated to prevent alcohol or alcoholic beverages not purchased within the facility from entering the facility and such program is approved by local law enforcement agencies.
(c) It is the intent under this subsection (9) that a retail license may not be issued by the board where doing so would, in the judgment of the board, adversely affect a private school meeting the requirements for private schools under Title
28A
RCW, which school is within five hundred feet of the proposed licensee. The board must fully consider and give substantial weight to objections filed by private schools. If a license is issued despite the proximity of a private school, the board must state in a letter addressed to the private school the board's reasons for issuing the license.
(10) The restrictions set forth in subsection (9) of this section do not prohibit the board from authorizing the assumption of existing licenses now located within the restricted area by other persons or licenses or relocations of existing licensed premises within the restricted area. In no case may the licensed premises be moved closer to a church or school than it was before the assumption or relocation.
(11)(a) Nothing in this section prohibits the board, in its discretion, from issuing a temporary retail or distributor license to an applicant to operate the retail or distributor premises during the period the application for the license is pending. The board may establish a fee for a temporary license by rule.
(b) A temporary license issued by the board under this section must be for a period not to exceed sixty days. A temporary license may be extended at the discretion of the board for additional periods of sixty days upon payment of an additional fee and upon compliance with all conditions required in this section.
(c) Refusal by the board to issue or extend a temporary license shall not entitle the applicant to request a hearing. A temporary license may be canceled or suspended summarily at any time if the board determines that good cause for cancellation or suspension exists. RCW 66.08.130
applies to temporary licenses.
(d) Application for a temporary license must be on such form as the board shall prescribe. If an application for a temporary license is withdrawn before issuance or is refused by the board, the fee which accompanied such application must be refunded in full.
(12) In determining whether to grant or deny a license or renewal of any license, the board must give substantial weight to objections from an incorporated city or town or county legislative authority based upon chronic illegal activity associated with the applicant's operations of the premises proposed to be licensed or the applicant's operation of any other licensed premises, or the conduct of the applicant's patrons inside or outside the licensed premises. "Chronic illegal activity" means (a) a pervasive pattern of activity that threatens the public health, safety, and welfare of the city, town, or county including, but not limited to, open container violations, assaults, disturbances, disorderly conduct, or other criminal law violations, or as documented in crime statistics, police reports, emergency medical response data, calls for service, field data, or similar records of a law enforcement agency for the city, town, county, or any other municipal corporation or any state agency; or (b) an unreasonably high number of citations for violations of RCW 46.61.502
associated with the applicant's or licensee's operation of any licensed premises as indicated by the reported statements given to law enforcement upon arrest.
[
2019 c 370 s 1
;
2012 c 39 s 4
;
2011 c 195 s 1
;
2009 c 271 s 6
;
2007 c 473 s 1
;
2006 c 359 s 1
;
2004 c 133 s 1
;
2002 c 119 s 3
;
1998 c 126 s 2
. Prior:
1997 c 321 s 1
;
1997 c 58 s 873
;
1995 c 232 s 1
;
1988 c 200 s 1
;
1987 c 217 s 1
;
1983 c 160 s 3
;
1982 c 85 s 2
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 10
;
1981 c 67 s 31
;
1974 ex.s. c 66 s 1
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 10
;
1971 c 70 s 1
;
1969 ex.s. c 178 s 3
;
1947 c 144 s 1
;
1935 c 174 s 3
;
1933 ex.s. c 62 s 27
; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 7306-27. Formerly RCW 66.24.010, part and
66.24.020
through
66.24.100
. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1937 c 217 s 1 (23U) now codified as RCW 66.24.025
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2019 c 370:
"This act takes effect January 1, 2020." [
2019 c 370 s 2
.]
Construction
—
Effective date
—
2012 c 39:
See notes following RCW 82.08.155
.
Effective date
—
1998 c 126:
See note following RCW 66.20.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
"This act takes effect July 1, 1998." [
1997 c 321 s 64
.]
Short title
—
Part headings, captions, table of contents not law
—
Exemptions and waivers from federal law
—
Conflict with federal requirements
—
Severability
—
1997 c 58:
See RCW 74.08A.900
through
74.08A.904
.
Effective dates
—
Intent
—
1997 c 58:
See notes following RCW 74.20A.320
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Effective dates
—
Severability
—
1981 c 67:
See notes following RCW 34.12.010
.
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 209:
See notes following RCW 66.20.160
.
Effective date
—
1971 c 70:
"The effective date of this 1971 amendatory act is July 1, 1971." [
1971 c 70 s 4
.]
RCW 66.24.012
License suspension
—
Noncompliance with support order
—
Reissuance.
The board shall immediately suspend the license of a person who has been certified pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320
by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order or a *residential or visitation order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for reinstatement during the suspension, reissuance of the license shall be automatic upon the board's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the licensee is in compliance with the order.
[
1997 c 58 s 862
.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
1997 c 58 s 886 requiring a court to order certification of noncompliance with residential provisions of a court-ordered parenting plan was vetoed. Provisions ordering the department of social and health services to certify a responsible parent based on a court order to certify for noncompliance with residential provisions of a parenting plan were vetoed. See RCW 74.20A.320
.
Short title
—
Part headings, captions, table of contents not law
—
Exemptions and waivers from federal law
—
Conflict with federal requirements
—
Severability
—
1997 c 58:
See RCW 74.08A.900
through
74.08A.904
.
Effective dates
—
Intent
—
1997 c 58:
See notes following RCW 74.20A.320
.
RCW 66.24.013
License suspension
—
Electronic benefit cards.
The board shall immediately suspend the license of a business that has been issued a license under RCW 66.24.330, 66.24.371, or
66.24.600
if the board receives information that the business has not complied with RCW 74.08.580
(2). If the licensee has remained otherwise eligible to be licensed, the board may reinstate the suspended license when the business has complied with RCW 74.08.580
(2).
[
2011 1st sp.s. c 42 s 15
.]
NOTES:
Findings
—
Intent
—
Effective date
—
2011 1st sp.s. c 42:
See notes following RCW 74.08A.260
.
Finding
—
2011 1st sp.s. c 42:
See note following RCW 74.04.004
.
RCW 66.24.015
Nonrefundable application fee for retail license.
An application for a new annual retail license under this title shall be accompanied by payment of a nonrefundable $112.50 fee to cover expenses incurred in processing the application. If the application is approved, the application fee shall be applied toward the fee charged for the license.
[
2025 c 343 s 3
;
1988 c 200 s 4
.]
RCW 66.24.025
Transfer of license
—
Fee
—
Exception
—
Corporate changes, approval
—
Fee.
(1) If the board approves, a license may be transferred, without charge, to the surviving spouse only of a deceased licensee if the parties were maintaining a marital community and the license was issued in the names of one or both of the parties. For the purpose of considering the qualifications of the surviving party or parties to receive a liquor license, the *liquor control board may require a criminal history record information check. The board may submit the criminal history record information check to the Washington state patrol and to the identification division of the federal bureau of investigation in order that these agencies may search their records for prior arrests and convictions of the individual or individuals who filled out the forms. The board shall require fingerprinting of any applicant whose criminal history record information check is submitted to the federal bureau of investigation.
(2) The proposed sale of more than ten percent of the outstanding and/or issued stock of a licensed corporation or any proposed change in the officers of a licensed corporation must be reported to the board, and board approval must be obtained before such changes are made. A fee of seventy-five dollars will be charged for the processing of such change of stock ownership and/or corporate officers.
[
2002 c 119 s 4
;
1995 c 232 s 2
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 11
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 11
;
1971 c 70 s 2
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23U) (adding new section 23-U to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23U.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by
2015 c 70 s 3
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 209:
See notes following RCW 66.20.160
.
Effective date
—
1971 c 70:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
RCW 66.24.035
Combination spirits, beer, and wine license.
(1) There is a license called a combination spirits, beer, and wine license, to sell wine and beer, including without limitation strong beer, at retail in bottles, cans, and original containers, not to be consumed upon the premises where sold, and to:
(a) Sell spirits in original containers to consumers for consumption off the licensed premises and to permit holders;
(b) Sell spirits in original containers to retailers licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the premises, for resale at their licensed premises according to the terms of their licenses; and
(c) Export spirits.
(2) The annual fee for the combination spirits, beer, and wine license is $2,000 for each store.
(3) For the purposes of this title, a combination spirits, beer, and wine license is a retail license, and a sale by a combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee is a retail sale only if not for resale. Nothing in this title authorizes sales by on-premise licensees to other retail licensees.
(4)(a) The board may issue a combination spirits, beer, and wine license:
(i) For premises comprising at least 10,000 square feet of fully enclosed retail space within a single structure, including storerooms and other interior auxiliary areas but excluding covered or fenced exterior areas, whether or not attached to the structure, and only to applicants that the board determines will maintain appropriate systems for inventory management, employee training, employee supervision, and physical security of the product;
(ii) For premises of a former contract liquor store; or
(iii) To a holder of former state liquor store operating rights sold at auction under RCW 66.24.620
.
(b) License issuances and renewals are subject to RCW 66.24.010
and the regulations adopted thereunder including, without limitation, rights of cities, towns, county legislative authorities, the public, churches, schools, and public institutions to object to or prevent issuance of local liquor licenses. However, existing grocery and other retail premises over 10,000 square feet licensed to sell beer and/or wine are deemed to be premises "now licensed" under RCW 66.24.010
(9)(a) for the purpose of processing applications for combination spirits, beer, and wine licenses.
(c) A retailer authorized to sell spirits for consumption on or off the licensed premises may accept delivery of spirits and deliver spirits in the same manner as is provided in RCW 66.24.630
(3)(d).
(d) For purposes of negotiating volume discounts of spirits, a group of individual retailers authorized to sell spirits for consumption off the licensed premises may accept delivery of spirits as provided in RCW 66.24.630
(3)(e).
(5) Each combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee must pay to the board, for deposit into the liquor revolving fund, a license issuance fee equivalent to the license issuance fee imposed on licensees selling spirits pursuant to RCW 66.24.630
(4)(a).
(6) The board may not issue a combined spirits, beer, and wine license to an applicant if the applicant would qualify for a restricted license as provided in RCW 66.24.371
(4) or
66.24.360
(7) if the applicant had applied for a license under RCW 66.24.371
or
66.24.360
instead of pursuant to this section.
(7) As a condition to receiving and renewing a combination spirits, beer, and wine license the licensee must comply with RCW 66.24.630
(6).
(8) The maximum penalties prescribed by the board in WAC 314-29-020 through 314-29-040 relating to fines and suspensions are doubled for violations relating to the sale of spirits by combination spirits, beer, and wine licensees.
(9)(a) A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee that joins the responsible vendor program developed by the board pursuant to RCW 66.24.630
(8) and maintains all of the program's requirements is not subject to the doubling of penalties provided in this section for a single violation in any period of 12 calendar months.
(b) To participate in the responsible vendor program, a combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee must submit an application form to the board. If the application establishes that the combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee meets the qualifications to join the program, the board must send the licensee a membership certificate.
(c) A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee participating in the responsible vendor program must meet the requirements in RCW 66.24.630
(8)(e) and comply with board rules adopted to implement RCW 66.24.630
(8).
(10)(a) Any endorsement available to the holder of a license issued pursuant to RCW 66.24.360
or
66.24.371
is available, upon board approval and pursuant to board rules, to a combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee, provided that the combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee would qualify for a license and the endorsement under RCW 66.24.360
or
66.24.371, as applicable, had the licensee applied for a license and endorsement pursuant to RCW 66.24.360, 66.24.363, or
66.24.371, as applicable, instead of the combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to this section. A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee with an endorsement issued pursuant to this subsection must comply with the requirements of the endorsement to the same extent as if the endorsement was issued pursuant to RCW 66.24.360, 66.24.363, or
66.24.371, as applicable.
(b) A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee may conduct sampling in accordance with:
(i) RCW 66.24.371
(2) if the combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee would qualify for a license under RCW 66.24.371
; or
(ii) RCW 66.24.363
if the combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee would qualify for a license under RCW 66.24.360
.
(11) Licensees holding a combination spirits, beer, and wine license must maintain either:
(a) A minimum $3,000 inventory of food products for human consumption, not including pop, beer, strong beer, wine, or spirits; or
(b) A minimum $3,000 wholesale inventory of beer, strong beer, and/or wine.
(12) A combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee holding a snack bar license under RCW 66.24.350
may receive an endorsement to allow the sale of confections containing more than one percent but not more than 10 percent alcohol by weight to persons 21 years of age or older.
(13) The board may adopt rules to implement this section.
[
2025 c 343 s 4
;
2025 c 95 s 1
;
2017 c 96 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note:
This section was amended by 2025 c 95 s 1 and by 2025 c 343 s 4, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025
(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025
(1).
RCW 66.24.055
Spirits distributor license.
(1) There is a license for spirits distributors to (a) sell spirits purchased from manufacturers, distillers, or suppliers including, without limitation, licensed Washington distilleries, licensed spirits importers, other Washington spirits distributors, or suppliers of foreign spirits located outside of the United States, to spirits retailers including, without limitation, spirits retail licensees, special occasion license holders, interstate common carrier license holders, restaurant spirits retailer license holders, spirits, beer, and wine private club license holders, hotel license holders, sports entertainment facility license holders, and spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license holders, and to other spirits distributors; and (b) export the same from the state.
(2)(a) As limited by (b) of this subsection, each spirits distributor licensee must pay to the board, for deposit into the liquor revolving fund, a license issuance fee calculated as follows:
(i) In each of the first 27 months of licensure, 10 percent of the total revenue from all the licensee's sales of spirits made during the month for which the fee is due, respectively; and
(ii) In the 28th month of licensure and each month thereafter, five percent of the total revenue from all the licensee's sales of spirits made during the month for which the fee is due, respectively.
(b) The fee required under this subsection (2) is calculated only on sales of items which the licensee was the first spirits distributor in the state to have received:
(i) In the case of spirits manufactured in the state, from the distiller; or
(ii) In the case of spirits manufactured outside the state, from an authorized out-of-state supplier.
(c) A retail licensee selling for resale must pay a distributor license fee under the terms and conditions in this section on resales of spirits the licensee has purchased on which no other distributor license fee has been paid. The board must establish rules setting forth the frequency and timing of such payments and reporting of sales dollar volume by the licensee, with payments due quarterly in arrears.
(d) No spirits inventory may be subject to calculation of more than a single spirits distributor license issuance fee.
(3) In addition to the payment set forth in subsection (2) of this section, each spirits distributor licensee renewing its annual license must pay an annual license renewal fee of $1,980 for each licensed location.
(4) There is no minimum facility size or capacity for spirits distributor licenses, and no limit on the number of such licenses issued to qualified applicants. License applicants must provide physical security of the product that is substantially as effective as the physical security of the distribution facilities currently operated by the board with respect to preventing pilferage. License issuances and renewals are subject to RCW 66.24.010
and the regulations promulgated thereunder, including without limitation rights of cities, towns, county legislative authorities, the public, churches, schools, and public institutions to object to or prevent issuance of local liquor licenses. However, existing distributor premises licensed to sell beer and/or wine are deemed to be premises "now licensed" under RCW 66.24.010
(9)(a) for the purpose of processing applications for spirits distributor licenses.
[
2025 c 343 s 5
;
2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 1
;
2012 c 2 s 105
(Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
NOTES:
Application
—
2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 1:
"The changes made in section 1 of this act apply to spirits distributors licensed on or after January 1, 2012." [
2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 2
.]
Effective date
—
2013 2nd sp.s. c 12:
See note following RCW 66.24.632
.
Finding
—
Application
—
Rules
—
Effective date
—
Contingent effective date
—
2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183):
See notes following RCW 66.24.620
.
RCW 66.24.065
Spirits license fee distribution.
The distribution of spirits license fees under RCW 66.24.630
and
66.24.055
through the liquor revolving fund to border areas, counties, cities, towns, and the municipal research center must be made in a manner that provides that each category of recipients receive, in the aggregate, no less than it received from the liquor revolving fund during comparable periods prior to December 8, 2011. An additional distribution of ten million dollars per year from the spirits license fees must be provided to border areas, counties, cities, and towns through the liquor revolving fund for the purpose of enhancing public safety programs.
[
2012 c 2 s 302
(Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
NOTES:
Finding
—
Application
—
Rules
—
Effective date
—
Contingent effective date
—
2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183):
See notes following RCW 66.24.620
.
RCW 66.24.120
Vacation of suspension on payment of penalty.
The board in suspending any license may further provide in the order of suspension that such suspension shall be vacated upon payment to the board by the licensee of a monetary penalty in an amount then fixed by the board.
[
1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 12
;
1939 c 172 s 7
(adding new section 27-C to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-27C.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 209:
See notes following RCW 66.20.160
.
RCW 66.24.140
Distiller's license
—
Fee
—
On-premises and off-premises consumption
—
Tasting room age restrictions.
(1) There is a license to distillers, including blending, rectifying, and bottling; fee $2,100 per annum, unless provided otherwise as follows:
(a) For distillers producing 150,000 gallons or less of spirits with at least half of the raw materials used in the production grown in Washington, the license fee must be reduced to $150 per annum;
(b) The board must license stills used and to be used solely and only by a commercial chemist for laboratory purposes, and not for the manufacture of liquor for sale, at a fee of $30 per annum;
(c) The board must license stills used and to be used solely and only for laboratory purposes in any school, college, or educational institution in the state, without fee; and
(d) The board must license stills that have been duly licensed as fruit and/or wine distilleries by the federal government, used and to be used solely as fruit and/or wine distilleries in the production of fruit brandy and wine spirits, at a fee of $300 per annum.
(2) Any distillery licensed under this section may:
(a) Sell, for off-premises consumption, spirits of the distillery's own production, spirits produced by another distillery or craft distillery licensed in this state, or vermouth or sparkling wine products produced by a licensee in this state. A distillery selling spirits or other alcohol authorized under this subsection must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to retailers for those products;
(b) Contract distilled spirits for, and sell contract distilled spirits to, holders of distillers' or manufacturers' licenses, including licenses issued under RCW 66.24.520, or for export; and
(c) Serve samples of spirits for free or for a charge, and sell servings of spirits, vermouth, and sparkling wine to customers for on-premises consumption, at the premises of the distillery indoors, outdoors, or in any combination thereof, and at the distillery's off-site tasting rooms in accordance with this chapter, subject to the following conditions:
(i) A distillery may provide to customers, for free or for a charge, for on-premises consumption, spirits samples that are .5 ounce or less per sample of spirits, and that may be adulterated with water, ice, other alcohol entitled to be served or sold on the licensed premises under this section, or nonalcoholic mixers;
(ii) A distillery may sell, for on-premises consumption, servings of spirits of the distillery's own production or spirits produced by another distillery or craft distillery licensed in this state, which must be adulterated with water, ice, other alcohol entitled to be sold or served on the licensed premises, or nonalcoholic mixers if the revenue derived from the sale of spirits for on-premises consumption under this subsection (2)(c)(ii) does not comprise more than 30 percent of the overall gross revenue earned in the tasting room during the calendar year. Any distiller who sells adulterated products under this subsection, must file an annual report with the board that summarizes the distiller's revenue sources; and
(iii) A distillery may sell, for on-premises consumption, servings of vermouth or sparkling wine products produced by a licensee in this state.
(3)(a) If a distillery provides or sells spirits or other alcohol products authorized to be sold or provided to customers for on-premises or off-premises consumption that are produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state, then at any one time no more than 25 percent of the alcohol stock-keeping units offered or sold by the distillery at its distillery premises and at any off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146
may be vermouth, sparkling wine, or spirits made by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state. If a distillery sells fewer than 20 alcohol stock-keeping units of products of its own production, it may sell up to five alcohol stock-keeping units of vermouth, sparkling wine, or spirits produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state.
(b) A person is limited to receiving or purchasing, for on-premises consumption, no more than two ounces total of spirits that are unadulterated. Any additional spirits purchased for on-premises consumption must be adulterated as authorized in this section.
(c)(i) No person under 21 years of age may be on the premises of a distillery tasting room, including an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, unless they are accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
(ii) Every distillery tasting room, including the off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146, where alcohol is sampled, sold, or served, must include a designated area where persons under 21 years of age are allowed to enter. Such location may be in a separate room or a designated area within the tasting room separated from the remainder of the tasting room space as authorized by the board.
(iii) Except for (c)(iv) of this subsection, or an event where a private party has secured a private banquet permit, no person under 21 years of age may be on the distillery premises, or the off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146, past 9:00 p.m.
(iv) Notwithstanding the limitations of (c)(iii) of this subsection, persons under 21 years of age who are children of owners, operators, or managers of a distillery or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, may be in any area of a distillery, tasting room, or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, provided they must be under the direct supervision of their parent or legal guardian while on the premises.
(d) Any person serving or selling spirits or other alcohol authorized to be served or sold by a distillery must obtain a class 12 alcohol server permit.
(e) A distillery may sell nonalcoholic products at retail.
[
2025 c 343 s 6
; (2022 c 116 s 7 expired December 31, 2023);
2021 c 6 s 1
;
2020 c 238 s 1
;
2017 c 260 s 1
;
2015 c 194 s 1
;
2014 c 92 s 4
;
2010 c 290 s 1
;
2008 c 94 s 1
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 28
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23D) (adding new section 23-D to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23D.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2022 c 116 ss 2-20:
See note following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
Finding
—
Intent
—
2022 c 116:
See notes following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
2021 c 6:
"This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [February 28, 2021]." [
2021 c 6 s 20
.]
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.145
Craft distillery
—
On-premises and off-premises consumption
—
Tasting room age restrictions.
(1)(a) Any craft distillery may sell, for off-premises consumption, spirits of its own production, spirits produced by another craft distillery or distillery licensed in this state, and vermouth and sparkling wine products produced by a licensee in this state.
(b) A craft distillery selling spirits or other alcohol authorized under this subsection must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to retailers for those products.
(2) Any craft distillery may contract distilled spirits for, and sell contract distilled spirits to, holders of distillers' or manufacturers' licenses, including licenses issued under RCW 66.24.520, or for export.
(3) Any craft distillery licensed under this section may serve samples of spirits for free or for a charge, and sell servings of spirits, vermouth, and sparkling wine products to customers for on-premises consumption, at the premises of the distillery indoors, outdoors, or in any combination thereof, and at the distillery's off-site tasting rooms, in accordance with this chapter, subject to the following conditions:
(a) A craft distillery may provide to customers, for free or for a charge, for on-premises consumption, spirits samples that are one-half ounce or less per sample of spirits, and that may be adulterated with water, ice, other alcohol entitled to be sold or served on the licensed premises, or nonalcoholic mixers;
(b) A craft distillery may sell, for on-premises consumption, servings of spirits of the craft distillery's own production and spirits produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state, which must be adulterated with water, ice, other alcohol entitled to be sold or served on the licensed premises, or nonalcoholic mixers if the revenue derived from the sale of spirits for on-premises consumption under this subsection (3)(b) does not comprise more than thirty percent of the overall gross revenue earned in the tasting room during the calendar year. Any distiller who sells adulterated products under this subsection, must file an annual report with the board that summarizes the distiller's revenue sources; and
(c) A distillery may sell, for on-premises consumption, servings of vermouth or sparkling wine products produced by a licensee in this state.
(4)(a) If a craft distillery provides or sells spirits or other alcohol products authorized to be sold or provided to customers for on-premises or off-premises consumption that are produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state, then at any one time no more than twenty-five percent of the alcohol stock-keeping units offered or sold by the craft distillery at its craft distillery premises and at any off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146
may be vermouth, sparkling wine, or spirits produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state. If a distillery sells fewer than twenty alcohol stock-keeping units of products of its own production, it may sell up to five alcohol stock-keeping units of vermouth, sparkling wine, or spirits produced by another distillery, craft distillery, or licensee in this state.
(b) A person is limited to receiving or purchasing, for on-premises consumption, no more than two ounces total of spirits that are unadulterated. Any additional spirits purchased for on-premises consumption must be adulterated.
(c) Any person serving or selling spirits or other alcohol authorized to be served or sold by a craft distillery must obtain a class 12 alcohol server permit.
(5) The board must adopt rules to implement the alcohol server permit requirement and may adopt additional rules to implement this section.
(6) Distilling is an agricultural practice.
(7)(a) No person under twenty-one years of age may be on the premises of a craft distillery tasting room, including an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, unless they are accompanied by their parent or guardian.
(b) Every craft distillery tasting room, including the off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146, where alcohol is sampled, sold, or served, must include a designated area where persons under twenty-one years of age are allowed to enter. Such location may be in a separate room or a designated area within the tasting room separated from the remainder of the tasting room space as authorized by the board.
(c) Except for (d) of this subsection, or an event where a private party has secured a private banquet permit, no person under twenty-one years of age may be on the distillery premises, or the off-site tasting rooms licensed under RCW 66.24.146, past 9:00 p.m.
(d) Notwithstanding the limitations in (c) of this subsection, persons under twenty-one years of age who are children of owners, operators, or managers of a craft distillery or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, may be in any area of a licensed craft distillery, tasting room, or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, provided they must be under the direct supervision of their parent or guardian while on the premises.
(8) A craft distillery may sell nonalcoholic products at retail.
[
2020 c 238 s 2
;
2015 c 194 s 2
;
2014 c 92 s 1
;
2013 c 98 s 1
;
2012 c 2 s 205
(Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011);
2010 c 290 s 2
;
2008 c 94 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Finding
—
Application
—
Rules
—
Effective date
—
Contingent effective date
—
2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183):
See notes following RCW 66.24.620
.
RCW 66.24.146
Tasting room license.
(1) There is a tasting room license available to distillery and craft distillery licensees. A tasting room license authorizes the operation of an off-site tasting room, in addition to a tasting room attached to the distillery's or craft distillery's production facility, at which the licensee may sample, serve, and sell spirits and alcohol products authorized to be sampled, served, and sold under RCW 66.24.140
and
66.24.145, for on-premises and off-premises consumption, subject to the same limitations as provided in RCW 66.24.140
and
66.24.145
.
(2) A distillery or craft distillery licensed production facility is eligible for no more than two off-site tasting room licenses located in this state, which may be indoors, or outdoors or a combination thereof, and which shall be administratively tied to a licensed production facility. A separate license is required for the operation of each off-site tasting room. The fee for each off-site tasting room license is $2,100 per annum. No additional license is required for a distillery or craft distillery to sample, serve, and sell spirits and alcohol to customers in a tasting room on the distillery or craft distillery premises as authorized under this section, RCW 66.24.1472, 66.24.140, 66.24.145, 66.28.040, 66.24.630, and
66.28.310
. Off-site tasting rooms may have a section identified and segregated as federally bonded spaces for the storage of bulk or packaged spirits. Product of the licensee's production may be bottled or packaged in the space.
[
2025 c 343 s 7
; (2022 c 116 s 8 expired December 31, 2023);
2021 c 6 s 2
;
2020 c 238 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2022 c 116 ss 2-20:
See note following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
Finding
—
Intent
—
2022 c 116:
See notes following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
2021 c 6:
See note following RCW 66.24.140
.
Effective date
—
2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10:
"Sections 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10 of this act take effect January 1, 2021." [
2020 c 238 s 14
.]
RCW 66.24.1471
Distilleries, craft distilleries, off-site tasting rooms
—
Food offerings required
—
Rules.
(1) A distillery licensed under RCW 66.24.140
or
66.24.145, or an off-site tasting room authorized under RCW 66.24.146, must provide, for free or for a charge, food offerings to customers during public service hours. For the purposes of this section, "food offerings" means a combination of small serving food items to include a mix of hors d'oeuvre type foods, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, deli-style meats, chips, pretzels, nuts, popcorn, crackers, or similar items.
(2) A distillery providing food offerings under this section must comply with the local city or county health requirements for such level of service.
(3) In addition to the food offerings requirement in subsection (1) of this section, distillers and craft distillers shall post, in a conspicuous place within any tasting room, a list of at least five local restaurants or food trucks where customers can purchase food for consumption in the tasting room. The list shall include names, addresses, contact information, and hours of operation for each restaurant or food truck named.
(4) Distilleries that have secured spirits, beer, and wine retail license privileges under RCW 66.24.400
shall not allow customers to bring in food from outside restaurants or food trucks and are not subject to the provision of subsections (1) and (3) of this section.
(5) Requirements for food offerings shall be determined by the board in rule. The rules for food offerings shall:
(a) Include the ability for such food to be prepackaged for individual sale and consumption;
(b) Allow food offerings to be preprepared off-site for plating for the customer;
(c) Not require any warming, cooking, or heating off-site or on-site prior to service; and
(d) Not require the installation, maintenance, or use of any food heating device or apparatus to prepare any food offerings.
(6) A distillery licensed under RCW 66.24.140
or
66.24.145, or an off-site tasting room authorized under RCW 66.24.146, may install and use any type of commercial heating device or element to heat food offerings under this section without impacting their privileges under chapter 238, Laws of 2020.
[
2020 c 238 s 4
.]
RCW 66.24.1472
Jointly operated off-site tasting rooms
—
Jointly operated consumption areas.
(1) Of the off-site tasting rooms allowed in this chapter, any distillery, craft distillery, domestic winery, or any combination of licensees thereof, licensed under this chapter may jointly occupy and co-operate up to two off-site locations, which may be indoors, outdoors, or a combination thereof, at which they may sample, serve, and sell products of their own production and products authorized to be sampled, served, and sold under the terms of their license. The licensees must maintain separate storage of products and separate financials. The distillery or craft distillery tasting rooms referenced in this section shall be the off-site tasting rooms allowed, and have the privileges and limitations provided in this chapter. This section does not create additional numbers of authorized tasting rooms beyond what is authorized by this section, RCW 66.24.146, and in RCW 66.24.140, 66.24.145, 66.28.040, 66.24.630, and
66.28.310
.
(2) Any domestic brewery, microbrewery, domestic winery, distillery, or craft distillery licensed under this chapter, or any combination of licensees thereof, whose property parcels or buildings are located in direct physical proximity to one another may share a standing or seated tasting area for patrons to use, which may be indoors, outdoors, or a combination thereof. Each licensee may sample, serve, and sell products the licensee is authorized to sample, serve, and sell under the terms of its license, for on-premises consumption in the jointly operated consumption area. Each licensee must use distinctly marked glassware or serving containers to identify the source of any product being consumed. The distillery or craft distillery tasting rooms shall be the on-site or off-site tasting rooms allowed, and have the privileges and limitations provided in this chapter.
(3) Licensees operating under this section must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to retailers.
(4) Licensees operating under this section must comply with all applicable laws and rules relating to sampling and serving, as may be allowed by their license type.
(5) All licensees who participate in:
(a) A jointly operated off-premises location allowed under subsection (1) of this section, or
(b) A conjoined consumption area allowed under subsection (2) of this section
must share staffing resources. All participating licensees shall be jointly responsible for any violation or enforcement issues unless it can be demonstrated that the violation or enforcement issue was due to one or more licensee's specific conduct or action, in which case the violation or enforcement applies only to those identified licensees.
(6) Every person who participates in any manner in the sale or service of samples or servings of spirits must obtain a class 12 alcohol server permit. Every person who participates in any manner in the sale or service of samples or servings of beer and wine must obtain a class 12 or class 13 alcohol server permit.
[
2020 c 238 s 5
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10:
See note following RCW 66.24.146
.
RCW 66.24.1473
Off-site tasting rooms
—
Number of licenses.
(1) The number of licenses allowed to be issued for off-site tasting rooms authorized under RCW 66.24.146
shall not exceed one hundred fifty.
(2) The limitations in subsection (1) of this section do not apply to an off-site tasting room authorized under RCW 66.24.146
that has been granted a license under RCW 66.24.400
.
[
2020 c 238 s 6
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10:
See note following RCW 66.24.146
.
RCW 66.24.1474
Distilleries, craft distilleries, off-site tasting rooms
—
Obtaining a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license.
Nothing in this chapter prohibits a distillery licensed under RCW 66.24.140
or
66.24.145, or an off-site tasting room licensed under RCW 66.24.146, from obtaining a license under RCW 66.24.400
for the same premises.
[
2020 c 238 s 7
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2020 c 238 ss 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10:
See note following RCW 66.24.146
.
RCW 66.24.148
Distilleries, craft distilleries, off-site tasting rooms
—
Rules.
The board may adopt rules to implement chapter 238, Laws of 2020.
[
2020 c 238 s 12
.]
RCW 66.24.150
Manufacturer's license
—
Scope
—
Fee.
(1) There shall be a license to manufacturers of liquor, including all kinds of manufacturers except those licensed as distillers, domestic brewers, microbreweries, wineries, and domestic wineries, authorizing such licensees to manufacture, import, sell, and export liquor from the state; fee $750 per annum.
(2) Manufacturers licensed under this section may contract with licensed liquor distillers, craft distillers, domestic brewers, microbreweries, wineries, and domestic wineries to provide packaging services that include, but are not limited to:
(a) Canning, bottling, and bagging of alcoholic beverages;
(b) Mixing products before packaging; and
(c) Receiving and returning products to the originating liquor licensed businesses as part of a contract.
(3) Holders of a manufacturer's license:
(a) May contract with other nonliquor licensed businesses if the contract does not include alcohol products;
(b) May not contract directly or indirectly with any retail liquor licensee for the sale of alcohol products, unless they are medicinal, culinary, or toilet preparations not usable as beverages, as described in RCW 66.12.070
;
(c) May not engage in direct liquor sales to retail liquor licensees, except for the sale of alcohol products described in RCW 66.12.070
; and
(d) May not mix or infuse THC, CBD, or any other cannabinoid into any products containing alcohol.
[
2025 c 343 s 8
;
2019 c 156 s 1
;
1997 c 321 s 2
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 29
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23A) (adding new section 23-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23A.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.155
Alcohol manufacturers
—
Ancillary activities
—
Penalties.
(1) The state liquor and cannabis board must, by rule, adopt a schedule of penalties for a licensed alcohol manufacturer who has committed a violation as part of the licensee's ancillary activities.
(2)(a) The schedule of penalties adopted under subsection (1) of this section may include:
(i) The issuance of a monetary penalty;
(ii) The suspension, revocation, or cancellation of the licensee's ability to conduct ancillary activities; or
(iii) A monetary option in lieu of suspension or revocation.
(b) The schedule of penalties may not include the issuance of a suspension, revocation, or cancellation of an alcohol manufacturer's license and may not exceed the schedule of penalties for a similar violation committed by a retail licensee.
(3) For the purposes of this section, "ancillary activities" means the licensee's activities involving the public, as authorized by statute or by state liquor and cannabis board rule, relating to serving samples, operating a tasting room, conducting retail sales, serving alcohol under a restaurant license issued under this chapter, or serving alcohol with a special occasion license.
[
2018 c 25 s 1
.]
RCW 66.24.160
Spirits importer's license
—
Fee.
A spirits importer's license may be issued to any qualified person, firm or corporation, entitling the holder thereof to import into the state any liquor other than beer or wine; to store the same within the state, and to sell and export the same from the state; fee $2,100 per annum. Such spirits importer's license is subject to all conditions and restrictions imposed by this title or by the rules and regulations of the board, and is issued only upon such terms and conditions as may be imposed by the board.
[
2025 c 343 s 9
;
2012 c 2 s 207
(Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011);
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 30
;
1970 ex.s. c 13 s 1
. Prior:
1969 ex.s. c 275 s 2
;
1969 ex.s. c 21 s 1
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23J) (adding new section 23-J to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306 (23J).]
NOTES:
Finding
—
Application
—
Rules
—
Effective date
—
Contingent effective date
—
2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183):
See notes following RCW 66.24.620
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.165
Local wine industry association license
—
Fee.
(1) There is a retail license to be designated as the local wine industry association license to be issued to a nonprofit society or organization specifically created with the express purpose of encouraging consumer education of and promoting the economic development for a designated area of the Washington state wine industry.
(2) The local wine industry association licensee may purchase or receive donations of wine from domestic winery licensees and certificate of approval holders and use such wine for promotional or marketing purposes. Events or marketing programs conducted by the local wine industry association licensee may be held on domestic winery premises, including the premises of additional locations authorized under RCW 66.24.170
(4), as long as the domestic winery and the local wine industry association licensee each separately account for the sales of its wine. Domestic wineries and additional locations authorized under RCW 66.24.170
(4) are not subject to the restrictions of RCW 66.28.305, but only while participating in an event or marketing program conducted by the holder of this license.
(3) The holder of the local wine industry association license must notify the board of any event or marketing program conducted under the license at least 45 days before the event or start of the marketing program.
(4) The annual fee for the local wine industry association license is $700 per calendar year.
(5) Nothing in this section prohibits the holder of the local wine industry association license access to the special occasion license under RCW 66.24.380
or special permits under RCW 66.20.010
.
(6) Wine furnished to a nonprofit society under this section is subject to the taxes imposed under RCW 66.24.210
.
(7) A licensee under this section may conduct no more than 12 events per year.
(8) All licensees participating in an event or marketing program conducted under a license issued under this section are jointly responsible for any violation or enforcement issues arising out of the event or marketing program unless it can be demonstrated that the violation or enforcement issue was due to one or more licensee's specific conduct or action, in which case the violation or enforcement issue applies only to those identified licensees.
[
2025 c 343 s 10
;
2020 c 210 s 1
.]
RCW 66.24.170
Domestic winery license
—
Winery as distributor and/or retailer of own wine
—
Off-premises samples
—
Domestic wine made into sparkling wine
—
Sales at qualifying farmers markets.
(1) There is a license for domestic wineries; fee to be computed only on the liters manufactured: Less than 250,000 liters per year, $150 per year; and 250,000 liters or more per year, $600 per year.
(2) The license allows for the manufacture of wine in Washington state from grapes or other agricultural products.
(3) Any domestic winery licensed under this section may also act as a retailer of wine of its own production. Any domestic winery licensed under this section may act as a distributor of its own production. Notwithstanding any language in this title to the contrary, a domestic winery may use a common carrier to deliver up to 100 cases of its own production, in the aggregate, per month to licensed Washington retailers. A domestic winery may not arrange for any such common carrier shipments to licensed retailers of wine not of its own production. Except as provided in this section, any winery operating as a distributor and/or retailer under this subsection must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to distributors and/or retailers, except that a winery operating as a distributor may maintain a warehouse off the premises of the winery for the distribution of wine of its own production provided that: (a) The warehouse has been approved by the board under RCW 66.24.010
; and (b) the number of warehouses off the premises of the winery does not exceed one.
(4)(a) A domestic winery licensed under this section, at locations separate from any of its production or manufacturing sites, may serve samples of its own products, with or without charge, may sell wine of its own production at retail, and may sell for off-premises consumption wines of its own production in kegs or sanitary containers meeting the applicable requirements of federal law brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap at the time of sale, provided that: (i) Each additional location has been approved by the board under RCW 66.24.010
; (ii) the total number of additional locations does not exceed four; (iii) a winery may not act as a distributor at any such additional location; and (iv) any person selling or serving wine at an additional location for on-premises consumption must obtain a class 12 or class 13 alcohol server permit. Each additional location is deemed to be part of the winery license for the purpose of this title. At additional locations operated by multiple wineries under this section, if the board cannot connect a violation of RCW 66.44.200
or
66.44.270
to a single licensee, the board may hold all licensees operating the additional location jointly liable. Nothing in this subsection may be construed to prevent a domestic winery from holding multiple domestic winery licenses.
(b) A customer of a domestic winery may remove from the premises of the domestic winery or from a tasting room location approved under (a) of this subsection, recorked or recapped in its original container, any portion of wine purchased for on-premises consumption.
(5)(a) A domestic winery licensed under this section may apply to the board for an endorsement to sell wine of its own production at retail for off-premises consumption at a qualifying farmers market. The annual fee for this endorsement is $112.50. An endorsement issued pursuant to this subsection does not count toward the four additional retail locations limit specified in this section.
(b) For each month during which a domestic winery will sell wine at a qualifying farmers market, the winery must provide the board or its designee a list of the dates, times, and locations at which bottled wine may be offered for sale. This list must be received by the board before the winery may offer wine for sale at a qualifying farmers market.
(c) The wine sold at qualifying farmers markets must be made entirely from grapes grown in a recognized Washington appellation or from other agricultural products grown in this state.
(d) Each approved location in a qualifying farmers market is deemed to be part of the winery license for the purpose of this title. The approved locations under an endorsement granted under this subsection include tasting or sampling privileges subject to the conditions pursuant to RCW 66.24.175
. The winery may not store wine at a farmers market beyond the hours that the winery offers bottled wine for sale. The winery may not act as a distributor from a farmers market location.
(e) Before a winery may sell bottled wine at a qualifying farmers market, the farmers market must apply to the board for authorization for any winery with an endorsement approved under this subsection to sell bottled wine at retail at the farmers market. This application shall include, at a minimum: (i) A map of the farmers market showing all booths, stalls, or other designated locations at which an approved winery may sell bottled wine; and (ii) the name and contact information for the on-site market managers who may be contacted by the board or its designee to verify the locations at which bottled wine may be sold. Before authorizing a qualifying farmers market to allow an approved winery to sell bottled wine at retail at its farmers market location, the board must notify the persons or entities of such application for authorization pursuant to RCW 66.24.010
(8) and (9). An authorization granted under this subsection (5)(e) may be withdrawn by the board for any violation of this title or any rules adopted under this title.
(f) The board may adopt rules establishing the application and approval process under this section and such additional rules as may be necessary to implement this section.
(g) For the purposes of this subsection:
(i) "Qualifying farmers market" means an entity that sponsors a regular assembly of vendors at a defined location for the purpose of promoting the sale of agricultural products grown or produced in this state directly to the consumer under conditions that meet the following minimum requirements:
(A) There are at least five participating vendors who are farmers selling their own agricultural products;
(B) The total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are farmers exceeds the total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are processors or resellers. However, if a farmers market does not satisfy this subsection (5)(g)(i)(B), a farmers market is still considered a "qualifying farmers market" if the total combined gross annual sales of farmers and processors at the farmers market is $1,000,000 or more;
(C) The total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are farmers, processors, or resellers exceeds the total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are not farmers, processors, or resellers;
(D) The sale of imported items and secondhand items by any vendor is prohibited; and
(E) No vendor is a franchisee.
(ii) "Farmer" means a natural person who sells, with or without processing, agricultural products that he or she raises on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iii) "Processor" means a natural person who sells processed food that he or she has personally prepared on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iv) "Reseller" means a natural person who buys agricultural products from a farmer and resells the products directly to the consumer.
(6) Wine produced in Washington state by a domestic winery licensee may be shipped out-of-state for the purpose of making it into sparkling wine and then returned to such licensee for resale. Such wine is deemed wine manufactured in the state of Washington for the purposes of RCW 66.24.206, and shall not require a special license.
(7) During an event held by a nonprofit holding a special occasion license issued under RCW 66.24.380, a domestic winery licensed under this section may take orders, either in writing or electronically, and accept payment for wines of its own production under the following conditions:
(a) Wine produced by the domestic winery may be served for on-premises consumption by the special occasion licensee;
(b) The domestic winery delivers wine to the consumer on a date after the conclusion of the special occasion event;
(c) The domestic winery delivers wine to the consumer at a location different from the location at which the special occasion event is held;
(d) The domestic winery complies with all requirements in chapter
66.20
RCW for direct sale of wine to consumers;
(e) The wine is not sold for resale; and
(f) The domestic winery is entitled to all proceeds from the sale and delivery of its wine to a consumer after the conclusion of the special occasion event, but may enter into an agreement to share a portion of the proceeds of these sales with the special occasion licensee licensed under RCW 66.24.380
.
[
2025 c 343 s 11
; (2022 c 116 s 9 expired December 31, 2023);
2021 c 6 s 3
;
2019 c 169 s 1
;
2017 c 238 s 1
;
2016 c 235 s 1
. Prior:
2014 c 105 s 1
;
2014 c 27 s 1
;
2013 c 238 s 2
;
2009 c 373 s 4
; (2011 c 62 s 2 expired December 1, 2012);
2008 c 41 s 5
;
2007 c 16 s 2
;
2006 c 302 s 1
;
2003 c 44 s 1
;
2000 c 141 s 1
;
1997 c 321 s 3
;
1991 c 192 s 2
;
1982 c 85 s 4
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 31
;
1939 c 172 s 1
(23C);
1937 c 217 s 1
(23C) (adding new section 23-C to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23C. Formerly RCW 66.24.170, 66.24.180, and
66.24.190
.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2022 c 116 ss 2-20:
See note following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
Finding
—
Intent
—
2022 c 116:
See notes following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
2021 c 6:
See note following RCW 66.24.140
.
Expiration date
—
2011 c 62:
"This act expires December 1, 2012." [
2011 c 62 s 5
.]
Effective date
—
2006 c 302:
"Except for sections 10 and 12 of this act, this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect April 14, 2006." [
2006 c 302 s 16
.]
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.175
Farmers markets
—
Wine and beer sampling endorsement.
(1) A qualifying farmers market authorized to allow wineries to sell bottled wine at retail under RCW 66.24.170
or microbreweries to sell bottled beer at retail under RCW 66.24.244, or both, may apply to the *liquor control board for an endorsement to allow sampling of wine or beer or both. A winery or microbrewery offering samples under this section must have an endorsement from the board to sell wine or beer, as the case may be, of its own production at a qualifying farmers market under RCW 66.24.170
or
66.24.244, respectively.
(2) Samples may be offered only under the following conditions:
(a) No more than three wineries or microbreweries combined may offer samples at a qualifying farmers market per day.
(b) Samples must be two ounces or less. A winery or microbrewery may provide a maximum of two ounces of wine or beer to a customer per day.
(c) A winery or microbrewery may advertise that it offers samples only at its designated booth, stall, or other designated location at the farmers market.
(d) Customers must remain at the designated booth, stall, or other designated location while sampling beer or wine.
(e) Winery and microbrewery licensees and employees who are involved in sampling activities under this section must hold a class 12 or class 13 alcohol server permit.
(f) A winery or microbrewery must have food available for customers to consume while sampling beer or wine, or must be adjacent to a vendor offering prepared food.
(3) The board may establish additional requirements to ensure that persons under twenty-one years of age and apparently intoxicated persons may not possess or consume alcohol under the authority granted in this section.
(4) The board may prohibit sampling at a farmers market that is within the boundaries of an alcohol impact area recognized by resolution of the board if the board finds that the sampling activities at the farmers market have an adverse effect on the reduction of chronic public inebriation in the area.
(5) If a winery or microbrewery is found to have committed a public safety violation in conjunction with tasting activities, the board may suspend the licensee's farmers market endorsement and not reissue the endorsement for up to two years from the date of the violation. If mitigating circumstances exist, the board may offer a monetary penalty in lieu of suspension during a settlement conference.
(6) For the purposes of this section, a "qualifying farmers market" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 66.24.170
.
[
2014 c 105 s 2
;
2013 c 238 s 1
.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by
2015 c 70 s 3
.
RCW 66.24.179
Wine retailer reseller endorsement
—
Beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee.
(1) There is a wine retailer reseller endorsement to a beer and/or wine specialty shop license issued under RCW 66.24.371, to sell wine at retail in original containers to retailers licensed to sell wine for consumption on the premises, for resale at their licensed premises according to the terms of the license. For the purposes of this title, a beer and/or wine specialty shop license is a retail license, and a sale by a beer and/or wine specialty shop license with a reseller endorsement is a retail sale only if not for resale. The annual fee for the wine retailer reseller endorsement is $165 for each store.
(2) A beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee with a wine retailer reseller endorsement issued under this section may accept delivery of wine at its licensed premises or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, and from which it may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted by this title, to other licensed premises, to other registered facilities, or to lawful purchasers outside the state. Facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of beer and/or wine specialty shop licensees.
(3) A beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee, selling wine under the endorsement created in this section, may sell a maximum of 5,000 liters of wine per day for resale to retailers licensed to sell wine for consumption on the premises.
[
2025 c 343 s 12
;
2025 c 95 s 2
;
2016 c 190 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note:
This section was amended by 2025 c 95 s 2 and by 2025 c 343 s 12, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025
(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025
(1).
RCW 66.24.185
Bonded wine warehouse storage license
—
Qualifications and requirements
—
Fee.
(1) There shall be a license for bonded wine warehouses which shall authorize the storage and handling of bottled wine. Under this license a licensee may maintain a warehouse for the storage of wine off the premises of a winery.
(2) The board shall adopt similar qualifications for a bonded wine warehouse license as required for obtaining a domestic winery license as specified in RCW 66.24.010
and
66.24.170
. A licensee must be a sole proprietor, a partnership, a limited liability company, or a corporation. One or more domestic wineries may operate as a partnership, corporation, business co-op, or agricultural co-op for the purposes of obtaining a bonded wine warehouse license.
(3) All bottled wine shipped to a bonded wine warehouse from a winery or another bonded wine warehouse shall remain under bond and no tax imposed under RCW 66.24.210
shall be due, unless the wine is removed from bond and shipped to a licensed Washington wine distributor. Wine may be removed from a bonded wine warehouse only for the purpose of being (a) exported from the state, (b) shipped to a licensed Washington wine distributor, (c) returned to a winery or bonded wine warehouse, or (d) shipped to a consumer pursuant to RCW 66.20.360
through
66.20.390
.
(4) Warehousing of wine by any person other than (a) a licensed domestic winery or a bonded wine warehouse licensed under the provisions of this section, (b) a licensed Washington wine distributor, (c) a licensed Washington wine importer, (d) a wine certificate of approval holder (W7), or (e) the board, is prohibited.
(5) A license applicant shall hold a federal permit for a bonded wine cellar and may be required to post a continuing wine tax bond of such an amount and in such a form as may be required by the board prior to the issuance of a bonded wine warehouse license. The fee for this license shall be $150 per annum.
(6) The board shall adopt rules requiring a bonded wine warehouse to be physically secure, zoned for the intended use and physically separated from any other use.
(7) Every licensee shall submit to the board a monthly report of movement of bottled wines to and from a bonded wine warehouse in a form prescribed by the board. The board may adopt other necessary procedures by which bonded wine warehouses are licensed and regulated.
(8) Handling of bottled wine, as provided for in this section, includes packaging and repackaging services; bottle labeling services; creating baskets or variety packs that may or may not include nonwine products; and picking, packing, and shipping wine orders direct to consumer. A winery contracting with a bonded wine warehouse for handling bottled wine must comply with all applicable state and federal laws and shall be responsible for financial transactions in direct to consumer shipping activities.
[
2025 c 343 s 13
;
2008 c 41 s 4
;
1999 c 281 s 4
;
1997 c 321 s 4
;
1984 c 19 s 1
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
RCW 66.24.191
Wine transfers.
Wine may be transferred from one licensed location to another licensed location so long as both locations are under common ownership. A licensed site may transfer up to a total of twenty cases of wine per calendar year.
[
2009 c 373 s 10
.]
RCW 66.24.200
Wine distributor's license
—
Fee.
There shall be a license for wine distributors to sell wine, purchased from licensed Washington wineries, wine certificate of approval holders, licensed wine importers, or suppliers of foreign wine located outside of the United States, to licensed wine retailers, other wine distributors, and holders of annual special permits issued under *RCW 66.20.010
(18), and to export the same from the state; fee $990 per year for each distributing unit.
[
2025 c 343 s 14
;
2023 c 257 s 2
;
2004 c 160 s 2
;
1997 c 321 s 5
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 32
;
1969 ex.s. c 21 s 2
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23K) (adding new section 23-K to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23K.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
RCW 66.20.010
was amended by 2025 c 167 s 1, changing subsection (18) to subsection (17).
Effective date
—
2004 c 160:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Effective date
—
1969 ex.s. c 21:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
RCW 66.24.203
Wine importer's license
—
Principal office
—
Report
—
Labels
—
Fee.
There shall be a license for wine importers that authorizes the licensee to import wine purchased from certificate of approval holders into the state of Washington. The licensee may also import, from suppliers located outside of the United States, wine manufactured outside the United States.
(1) Wine so imported may be sold to licensed wine distributors or exported from the state.
(2) Every person, firm, or corporation licensed as a wine importer shall establish and maintain a principal office within the state at which shall be kept proper records of all wine imported into the state under this license.
(3) No wine importer's license shall be granted to a nonresident of the state nor to a corporation whose principal place of business is outside the state until such applicant has established a principal office and agent within the state upon which service can be made.
(4) As a requirement for license approval, a wine importer shall enter into a written agreement with the board to furnish on or before the 20th day of each month, a report under oath, detailing the quantity of wine sold or delivered to each licensed wine distributor. Failure to file such reports may result in the suspension or cancellation of this license.
(5) Wine imported under this license must conform to the provisions of RCW 66.28.110
and have received label approval from the board. The board shall not certify wines labeled with names that may be confused with other nonalcoholic beverages whether manufactured or produced from a domestic winery or imported nor wines that fail to meet quality standards established by the board.
(6) The license fee shall be $240 per year.
[
2025 c 343 s 15
;
2004 c 160 s 3
;
1997 c 321 s 6
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2004 c 160:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
RCW 66.24.206
Out-of-state winery
—
Certificate of approval
—
Fee.
(1)(a) A United States winery located outside the state of Washington must hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipment of the certificate of approval holder's wine to licensed Washington wine distributors, importers, or retailers. A certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement may act as a distributor of its own production. Notwithstanding any language in this title to the contrary, a certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement may use a common carrier to deliver up to one hundred cases of its own production, in the aggregate, per month to licensed Washington retailers. A certificate of approval holder may not arrange for any such common carrier shipments to licensed retailers of wine not of its own production.
(b) Authorized representatives must hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipment of United States produced wine to licensed Washington wine distributors or importers.
(c) Authorized representatives must also hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipments of foreign produced wine to licensed Washington wine distributors or importers.
(2) The certificate of approval shall not be granted unless and until such winery or authorized representative shall have made a written agreement with the board to furnish to the board, on or before the twentieth day of each month, a report under oath, on a form to be prescribed by the board, showing the quantity of wine sold or delivered to each licensed wine distributor, importer, or retailer, during the preceding month, and shall further have agreed with the board, that such wineries, manufacturers, or authorized representatives, and all general sales corporations or agencies maintained by them, and all of their trade representatives, shall and will faithfully comply with all laws of the state of Washington pertaining to the sale of intoxicating liquors and all rules and regulations of the Washington *state liquor control board. A violation of the terms of this agreement will cause the board to take action to suspend or revoke such certificate.
(3) The fee for the certificate of approval and related endorsements, issued pursuant to the provisions of this title, shall be from time to time established by the board at a level that is sufficient to defray the costs of administering the certificate of approval program. The fee shall be fixed by rule by the board in accordance with the provisions of the administrative procedure act, chapter
34.05
RCW.
(4) Certificate of approval holders are deemed to have consented to the jurisdiction of Washington concerning enforcement of this chapter and all laws and rules related to the sale and shipment of wine.
[
2007 c 16 s 1
;
2006 c 302 s 4
;
2004 c 160 s 4
;
1997 c 321 s 7
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 34
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 13
;
1969 ex.s. c 21 s 10
.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by
2015 c 70 s 3
.
Effective date
—
2006 c 302:
See note following RCW 66.24.170
.
Effective date
—
2004 c 160:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 209:
See notes following RCW 66.20.160
.
Effective date
—
1969 ex.s. c 21:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
RCW 66.24.210
Imposition of taxes on sales of wine and cider
—
Additional taxes
—
Distributions.
(1) There is hereby imposed upon all wines except cider sold to wine distributors within the state a tax at the rate of twenty and one-fourth cents per liter. Any domestic winery or certificate of approval holder acting as a distributor of its own production must pay taxes imposed by this section. There is hereby imposed on all cider sold to wine distributors within the state a tax at the rate of three and fifty-nine one-hundredths cents per liter. However, wine sold or shipped in bulk from one winery to another winery is not subject to such tax.
(a) The tax provided for in this section shall be collected by direct payments based on wine purchased by wine distributors.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (7) of this section, every person purchasing wine under the provisions of this section must on or before the twentieth day of each month report to the board all purchases during the preceding calendar month in such manner and upon such forms as may be prescribed by the board, and with such report must pay the tax due from the purchases covered by such report unless the same has previously been paid. Any such purchaser of wine whose applicable tax payment is not postmarked by the twentieth day following the month of purchase will be assessed a penalty at the rate of two percent a month or fraction thereof. The board may require that every such person shall execute to and file with the board a bond to be approved by the board, in such amount as the board may fix, securing the payment of the tax. If any such person fails to pay the tax when due, the board may suspend or cancel the license until all taxes are paid.
(c) Any licensed retailer authorized to purchase wine from a certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement or a domestic winery must make monthly reports to the liquor and cannabis board on wine purchased during the preceding calendar month in the manner and upon such forms as may be prescribed by the board.
(2) An additional tax is imposed equal to the rate specified in RCW 82.02.030
multiplied by the tax payable under subsection (1) of this section. All revenues collected during any month from this additional tax must be transferred to the state general fund by the twenty-fifth day of the following month.
(3) An additional tax is imposed on wines subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section, at the rate of one-fourth of one cent per liter for wine sold after June 30, 1987. After June 30, 1996, such additional tax does not apply to cider. An additional tax of five one-hundredths of one cent per liter is imposed on cider sold after June 30, 1996. All revenues collected under this subsection (3) shall be disbursed quarterly to the Washington wine commission for use in carrying out the purposes of chapter
15.88
RCW.
(4) An additional tax is imposed on all wine subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to twenty-three and forty-four one-hundredths cents per liter on fortified wine as defined in RCW 66.04.010
when bottled or packaged by the manufacturer, one cent per liter on all other wine except cider, and eighteen one-hundredths of one cent per liter on cider. All revenues collected during any month from this additional tax shall be deposited in the state general fund by the twenty-fifth day of the following month.
(5)(a) An additional tax is imposed on all cider subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to two and four one-hundredths cents per liter of cider sold after June 30, 1996, and before July 1, 1997, and is equal to four and seven one-hundredths cents per liter of cider sold after June 30, 1997.
(b) All revenues collected from the additional tax imposed under this subsection (5) must be deposited in the state general fund.
(6) For the purposes of this section, "cider" means table wine that contains not less than one-half of one percent of alcohol by volume and not more than eight and one-half percent of alcohol by volume and is made from the normal alcoholic fermentation of the juice of sound, ripe apples or pears. "Cider" includes, but is not limited to, flavored, sparkling, or carbonated cider and cider made from condensed apple or pear must.
(7) For the purposes of this section, out-of-state wineries must pay taxes under this section on wine sold and shipped directly to Washington state residents in a manner consistent with the requirements of a wine distributor under subsections (1) through (4) of this section, except wineries shall be responsible for the tax and not the resident purchaser.
(8) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, any domestic winery or wine certificate of approval holder acting as a distributor of its own production that had total taxable sales of wine in Washington state of six thousand gallons or less during the calendar year preceding the date on which the tax would otherwise be due is not required to pay taxes under this section more often than annually.
[
2023 c 470 s 1012
. Prior:
2016 c 235 s 12
;
2016 c 225 s 1
;
2012 c 20 s 2
;
2009 c 479 s 42
;
2008 c 94 s 8
; prior:
2006 c 302 s 5
;
2006 c 101 s 4
;
2006 c 49 s 8
;
2001 c 124 s 1
;
1997 c 321 s 8
;
1996 c 118 s 1
;
1995 c 232 s 3
;
1994 sp.s. c 7 s 901
(Referendum Bill No. 43, approved November 8, 1994);
1993 c 160 s 2
;
1991 c 192 s 3
;
1989 c 271 s 501
;
1987 c 452 s 11
;
1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 s 10
;
1982 1st ex.s. c 35 s 23
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 12
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 204 s 2
;
1969 ex.s. c 21 s 3
;
1943 c 216 s 2
;
1939 c 172 s 3
;
1935 c 158 s 3
(adding new section 24-A to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1943 s 7306-24A. Formerly RCW 66.04.120, 66.24.210, part, 66.24.220, and
66.24.230, part. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1933 ex.s. c 62 s 25, part, now codified as RCW 66.24.230
.]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement
—
2023 c 470:
See note following RCW 10.99.030
.
Effective date
—
2009 c 479:
See note following RCW 2.56.030
.
Effective date
—
2006 c 302:
See note following RCW 66.24.170
.
Effective date
—
2001 c 124:
"This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2001." [
2001 c 124 s 2
.]
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1996 c 118:
"This act shall take effect July 1, 1996." [
1996 c 118 s 2
.]
Contingent partial referendum
—
1994 sp.s. c 7 ss 901-909:
"Sections 901 through 909, chapter 7, Laws of 1994 sp. sess. shall be submitted as a single ballot measure to the people for their adoption and ratification, or rejection, at the next succeeding general election to be held in this state, in accordance with Article II, section 1 of the state Constitution, as amended, and the laws adopted to facilitate the operation thereof unless section 13, chapter 2, Laws of 1994, has been declared invalid or otherwise enjoined or stayed by a court of competent jurisdiction." [
1994 sp.s. c 7 s 911
(Referendum Bill No. 43, approved November 8, 1994).]
Reviser's note:
Sections 901 through 909, chapter 7, Laws of 1994 sp. sess., were adopted and ratified by the people at the November 8, 1994, general election.
Finding
—
Intent
—
Severability
—
1994 sp.s. c 7:
See notes following RCW 43.70.540
.
Effective date
—
1993 c 160:
See note following RCW 66.12.180
.
Effective dates
—
1989 c 271:
See note following RCW 66.28.200
.
Severability
—
1989 c 271:
See note following RCW 9.94A.510
.
Construction
—
Effective dates
—
1987 c 452:
See RCW 15.88.900
and
15.88.901
.
Construction
—
Severability
—
Effective dates
—
1983 2nd ex.s. c 3:
See notes following RCW 82.04.255
.
Severability
—
Effective dates
—
1982 1st ex.s. c 35:
See notes following RCW 82.08.020
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Floor stocks tax:
"There is hereby imposed upon every licensed wine distributor who possesses wine for resale upon which the tax has not been paid under section 2, chapter 204, Laws of 1973, a floor stocks tax of sixty-five cents per wine gallon on wine in his or her possession or under his or her control on June 30, 1973. Each such distributor shall within twenty days after June 30, 1973, file a report with the Washington state liquor control board in such form as the board may prescribe, showing the wine products on hand July 1, 1973, converted to gallons thereof and the amount of tax due thereon. The tax imposed by this section shall be due and payable within twenty days after July 1, 1973, and thereafter bear interest at the rate of one percent per month." [
1997 c 321 s 9
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 204 s 3
.]
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 204:
See note following RCW 82.08.150
.
Effective date
—
1969 ex.s. c 21:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Giving away liquor prohibited
—
Exceptions: RCW 66.28.040
.
No tax on wine shipped to bonded warehouse: RCW 66.24.185
.
RCW 66.24.215
Levy of assessment on wine producers and growers to fund wine commission
—
Assessment rate changes
—
Procedures
—
Disbursement
—
Continuation.
(1) To provide for permanent funding of the wine commission after July 1, 1989, agricultural commodity assessments must be levied by the board on wine producers and growers as follows:
(a) Beginning on July 1, 1989, the assessment on wine producers is two cents per gallon on sales of packaged Washington wines.
(b) Beginning on July 1, 1989, the assessment on growers of Washington vinifera wine grapes is levied as provided in RCW 15.88.130
.
(c) After July 1, 1993, assessment rates under (a) of this subsection may be changed pursuant to a referendum conducted by the Washington wine commission and approved by a majority vote of wine producers. The weight of each producer's vote must be equal to the percentage of that producer's share of Washington vinifera wine production in the prior year.
(d) After July 1, 1993, assessment amounts under (b) of this subsection may be changed pursuant to a referendum conducted by the Washington wine commission and approved by a majority vote of grape growers. The weight of each grower's vote must be equal to the percentage of that grower's share of Washington vinifera grape sales in the prior year.
(e) After July 1, 2015, the assessment amounts under this section may not be levied on the production of cider as defined in RCW 66.24.210
.
(f) After January 1, 2018, the assessment amounts under this section may not be levied on the production of mead. For purposes of this section, "mead" means a wine or malt beverage of which honey represents the largest percentage of the starting fermentable sugars by weight of the finished product and that:
(i) Is derived from a mixture of honey and water, which may contain hops, fruit, spices, grain, and other agricultural products or flavors; and
(ii) Is sold or offered for sale as mead.
(2) Assessments collected under this section must be disbursed quarterly to the Washington wine commission for use in carrying out the purposes of chapter
15.88
RCW.
(3) Prior to July 1, 1996, a referendum must be conducted to determine whether to continue the Washington wine commission as representing both wine producers and grape growers. The voting may not be weighted. The wine producers must vote whether to continue the commission's coverage of wineries and wine production. The grape producers must vote whether to continue the commission's coverage of issues pertaining to grape growing. If a majority of both wine and grape producers favor the continuation of the commission, the assessments must continue as provided in subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section. If only one group of producers favors the continuation, the assessments may only be levied on the group which favored the continuation.
[
2017 c 8 s 1
;
2015 c 76 s 2
;
1988 c 257 s 7
;
1987 c 452 s 13
.]
NOTES:
Finding
—
Intent
—
2015 c 76:
"The legislature finds that the commodity assessment authorized in RCW 66.24.215
is applied to makers of cider as defined in RCW 66.24.210
but by definition is focused on the marketing and support of vinifera wine grape growers and vinifera wine producers. The rapid growth and strong market potential of the Washington cider industry require marketing efforts that are focused on cider products as a unique beverage category. The legislature intends to allow cider makers to support their own marketing efforts, which will benefit the cider industry by exempting them from an assessment that primarily supports vinifera wine." [
2015 c 76 s 1
.]
Effective date
—
2015 c 76:
"This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2015." [
2015 c 76 s 3
.]
Construction
—
Effective dates
—
1987 c 452:
See RCW 15.88.900
and
15.88.901
.
RCW 66.24.230
Monthly reports of domestic winery, wine certificate of approval holder, wine importer, and wine distributor
—
Prohibited, authorized sales.
Every domestic winery, wine certificate of approval holder, wine importer, and wine distributor licensed under this title shall make reports to the board of its operations, pursuant to such regulations as the board may adopt. However, such reports, including without limitation tax returns pursuant to RCW 66.24.210, may not be required more frequently than annually from any winery or wine certificate of approval holder that had total taxable sales of wine in Washington state of six thousand gallons or less during the calendar year preceding the date on which the report would otherwise be due. Such domestic winery, wine certificate of approval holder, wine importer, and wine distributor shall make no sales of wine within the state of Washington except to the board, or as otherwise provided in this title.
[
2012 c 20 s 1
;
2004 c 160 s 5
;
1997 c 321 s 10
;
1969 ex.s. c 21 s 4
;
1933 ex.s. c 62 s 25
; RRS s 7306-25. Formerly RCW 66.24.210
and
66.24.230
. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1943 c 216 s 2, part, now codified in RCW 66.24.210
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2004 c 160:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1969 ex.s. c 21:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
RCW 66.24.240
Domestic brewery's license
—
Fee.
(1) There shall be a license for domestic breweries; fee to be $2,100 for production of 60,000 barrels or more of malt liquor per year.
(2) Any domestic brewery, except for a brand owner of malt beverages under RCW 66.04.010
(7), licensed under this section may also act as a distributor and/or retailer for beer of its own production. Any domestic brewery operating as a distributor and/or retailer under this subsection shall comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to distributors and/or retailers. A domestic brewery holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license may sell beer of its own production for off-premises consumption from its restaurant premises in kegs or in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale.
(3) Any domestic brewery licensed under this section may also sell beer produced by another domestic brewery or a microbrewery for on and off-premises consumption from its premises as long as the other breweries' brands do not exceed 25 percent of the domestic brewery's on-tap offering of its own brands.
(4) A domestic brewery may hold up to four retail licenses to operate an on or off-premises tavern, beer and/or wine restaurant, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant, or any combination thereof. This retail license is separate from the brewery license. A brewery that holds a tavern license, a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, or a beer and/or wine restaurant license shall hold the same privileges and endorsements as permitted under RCW 66.24.320, 66.24.330, and
66.24.420
. However, when qualifying for and maintaining a beer and/or wine restaurant license or a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, a domestic brewery may subcontract with one or more individuals or entities to satisfy food service requirements applicable to the beer and/or wine restaurant license or the spirits, beer, and/or wine restaurant license.
(5) Any domestic brewery licensed under this section may contract-produce beer for a brand owner of malt beverages defined under RCW 66.04.010
(7), and this contract-production is not a sale for the purposes of RCW 66.28.170
and
66.28.180
.
(6)(a) A domestic brewery licensed under this section and qualified for a reduced rate of taxation pursuant to RCW 66.24.290
(3)(b) may apply to the board for an endorsement to sell bottled beer of its own production at retail for off-premises consumption at a qualifying farmers market. The annual fee for this endorsement is $112.50.
(b) For each month during which a domestic brewery will sell beer at a qualifying farmers market, the domestic brewery must provide the board or its designee a list of the dates, times, and locations at which bottled beer may be offered for sale. This list must be received by the board before the domestic brewery may offer beer for sale at a qualifying farmers market.
(c) The beer sold at qualifying farmers markets must be produced in Washington.
(d) Each approved location in a qualifying farmers market is deemed to be part of the domestic brewery license for the purpose of this title. The approved locations under an endorsement granted under this subsection do not include the tasting or sampling privilege of a domestic brewery. The domestic brewery may not store beer at a farmers market beyond the hours that the domestic brewery offers bottled beer for sale. The domestic brewery may not act as a distributor from a farmers market location.
(e) Before a domestic brewery may sell bottled beer at a qualifying farmers market, the farmers market must apply to the board for authorization for any domestic brewery with an endorsement approved under this subsection to sell bottled beer at retail at the farmers market. This application shall include, at a minimum: (i) A map of the farmers market showing all booths, stalls, or other designated locations at which an approved domestic brewery may sell bottled beer; and (ii) the name and contact information for the on-site market managers who may be contacted by the board or its designee to verify the locations at which bottled beer may be sold. Before authorizing a qualifying farmers market to allow an approved domestic brewery to sell bottled beer at retail at its farmers market location, the board shall notify the persons or entities of such application for authorization pursuant to RCW 66.24.010
(8) and (9). An authorization granted under this subsection (6)(e) may be withdrawn by the board for any violation of this title or any rules adopted under this title.
(f) The board may adopt rules establishing the application and approval process under this section and such additional rules as may be necessary to implement this section.
(g) For the purposes of this subsection:
(i) "Qualifying farmers market" means an entity that sponsors a regular assembly of vendors at a defined location for the purpose of promoting the sale of agricultural products grown or produced in this state directly to the consumer under conditions that meet the following minimum requirements:
(A) There are at least five participating vendors who are farmers selling their own agricultural products;
(B) The total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are farmers exceeds the total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are processors or resellers;
(C) The total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are farmers, processors, or resellers exceeds the total combined gross annual sales of vendors who are not farmers, processors, or resellers;
(D) The sale of imported items and secondhand items by any vendor is prohibited; and
(E) No vendor is a franchisee.
(ii) "Farmer" means a natural person who sells, with or without processing, agricultural products that he or she raises on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iii) "Processor" means a natural person who sells processed food that he or she has personally prepared on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iv) "Reseller" means a natural person who buys agricultural products from a farmer and resells the products directly to the consumer.
(7) The state board of health shall adopt rules to allow dogs on the premises of licensed domestic breweries that do not provide or subcontract for food service subject to a food service permit requirement.
(8)(a) Subject to (b) of this subsection, nothing in this title prohibits the use of a domestic brewery's licensed premises for the subcontracted and, where applicable, subleased operation of a mobile food unit, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or an independently operated food service provider or establishment by one or more persons or entities who sells food and nonalcoholic beverages to the public and does not hold a retail liquor license.
(b)(i) The premises used by the mobile food unit, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or independently operated food service provider or establishment, and the areas of the licensee's premises to which staff of the mobile food unit or independently operated food service provider or establishment may access, must be substantially separated from the storage of nontax-paid alcohol.
(ii) A person who subcontracts or subleases with a domestic brewery as provided in (a) of this subsection (8) is responsible for all kitchen space identified in the subcontract or sublease and for compliance with all applicable local health department regulations, including kitchen and food service permits. A diagram of the kitchen plan must be included in the subcontract or sublease, and the subcontract or sublease must evidence agreement of this space to be subcontracted or subleased. A domestic brewery subcontracting or subleasing space on its licensed premises as provided in (a) of this subsection (8) shall include in the subcontract or sublease a notification that the other party to the agreement is responsible for the entire subcontracted or subleased space and must hold necessary kitchen and food service permits from the applicable local jurisdiction.
[
2025 c 343 s 16
;
2025 c 141 s 1
; (2022 c 116 s 10 expired December 31, 2023);
2021 c 6 s 4
;
2020 c 230 s 1
. Prior:
2011 c 195 s 6
;
2011 c 119 s 212
;
2008 c 41 s 7
; (2008 c 41 s 6 expired June 30, 2008);
2007 c 370 s 7
; (2007 c 370 s 6 expired June 30, 2008); prior:
2006 c 302 s 2
;
2006 c 44 s 1
;
2003 c 154 s 1
;
2000 c 142 s 2
;
1997 c 321 s 11
;
1985 c 226 s 1
;
1982 c 85 s 5
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 13
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23B) (adding new section 23-B to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23B.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note:
This section was amended by 2025 c 141 s 1 and by 2025 c 343 s 16, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025
(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025
(1).
Expiration date
—
2022 c 116 ss 2-20:
See note following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
Finding
—
Intent
—
2022 c 116:
See notes following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
2021 c 6:
See note following RCW 66.24.140
.
Effective date
—
2008 c 41 ss 7 and 9:
"Sections 7 and 9 of this act take effect June 30, 2008." [
2008 c 41 s 15
.]
Expiration date
—
2008 c 41 ss 6 and 8:
"Sections 6 and 8 of this act expire June 30, 2008." [
2008 c 41 s 14
.]
Effective date
—
2007 c 370 ss 5 and 7:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Expiration date
—
2007 c 370 ss 4 and 6:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Effective date
—
2006 c 302:
See note following RCW 66.24.170
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.244
Microbrewery's license
—
Fee.
(1) There shall be a license for microbreweries; fee to be $150 for production of less than 60,000 barrels of malt liquor, including strong beer, per year.
(2)(a) Any microbrewery licensed under this section may also act as a distributor and/or retailer for beer and strong beer of its own production.
(b) Any microbrewery operating as a distributor and/or retailer under this subsection must comply with the applicable laws and rules relating to distributors and/or retailers, except that a microbrewery operating as a distributor may maintain a warehouse off the premises of the microbrewery for the distribution of beer provided that:
(i) The warehouse has been approved by the board under RCW 66.24.010
; and
(ii) The number of warehouses off the premises of the microbrewery does not exceed one.
(c) A microbrewery holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license may sell beer of its own production for off-premises consumption from its restaurant premises in kegs or in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale.
(3) Any microbrewery licensed under this section may also sell from its premises for on-premises and off-premises consumption:
(a) Beer produced by another microbrewery or a domestic brewery as long as the other breweries' brands do not exceed 25 percent of the microbrewery's on-tap offerings; or
(b) Cider produced by a domestic winery.
(4) The board may issue up to four retail licenses allowing a microbrewery to operate an on or off-premises tavern, beer and/or wine restaurant, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant, or any combination thereof.
(5) A microbrewery that holds a tavern license, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, or a beer and/or wine restaurant license holds the same privileges and endorsements as permitted under RCW 66.24.320, 66.24.330, and
66.24.420
. However, when qualifying for and maintaining a beer and/or wine restaurant license or a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, a microbrewery may subcontract with one or more individuals or entities to satisfy food service requirements applicable to the beer and/or wine restaurant license or the spirits, beer, and/or wine restaurant license.
(6)(a) A microbrewery licensed under this section may apply to the board for an endorsement to sell bottled beer of its own production at retail for off-premises consumption at a qualifying farmers market. The annual fee for this endorsement is $112.50. However, strong beer may not be sold at a farmers market or under any endorsement which may authorize microbreweries to sell beer at farmers markets.
(b) For each month during which a microbrewery will sell beer at a qualifying farmers market, the microbrewery must provide the board or its designee a list of the dates, times, and locations at which bottled beer may be offered for sale. This list must be received by the board before the microbrewery may offer beer for sale at a qualifying farmers market.
(c) Any person selling or serving beer must obtain a class 12 or class 13 alcohol server permit.
(d) The beer sold at qualifying farmers markets must be produced in Washington.
(e) Each approved location in a qualifying farmers market is deemed to be part of the microbrewery license for the purpose of this title. The approved locations under an endorsement granted under this subsection (6) include tasting or sampling privileges subject to the conditions pursuant to RCW 66.24.175
. The microbrewery may not store beer at a farmers market beyond the hours that the microbrewery offers bottled beer for sale. The microbrewery may not act as a distributor from a farmers market location.
(f) Before a microbrewery may sell bottled beer at a qualifying farmers market, the farmers market must apply to the board for authorization for any microbrewery with an endorsement approved under this subsection (6) to sell bottled beer at retail at the farmers market. This application must include, at a minimum: (i) A map of the farmers market showing all booths, stalls, or other designated locations at which an approved microbrewery may sell bottled beer; and (ii) the name and contact information for the on-site market managers who may be contacted by the board or its designee to verify the locations at which bottled beer may be sold. Before authorizing a qualifying farmers market to allow an approved microbrewery to sell bottled beer at retail at its farmers market location, the board must notify the persons or entities of the application for authorization pursuant to RCW 66.24.010
(8) and (9). An authorization granted under this subsection (6)(f) may be withdrawn by the board for any violation of this title or any rules adopted under this title.
(g) The board may adopt rules establishing the application and approval process under this section and any additional rules necessary to implement this section.
(h) For the purposes of this subsection (6):
(i) "Qualifying farmers market" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 66.24.170
.
(ii) "Farmer" means a natural person who sells, with or without processing, agricultural products that he or she raises on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iii) "Processor" means a natural person who sells processed food that he or she has personally prepared on land he or she owns or leases in this state or in another state's county that borders this state.
(iv) "Reseller" means a natural person who buys agricultural products from a farmer and resells the products directly to the consumer.
(7) Any microbrewery licensed under this section may contract-produce beer for another microbrewer. This contract-production is not a sale for the purposes of RCW 66.28.170
and
66.28.180
.
(8) The state board of health shall adopt rules to allow dogs on the premises of licensed microbreweries that do not provide or contract for food service subject to a food service permit requirement.
(9)(a) Subject to (b) of this subsection, nothing in this title prohibits the use of a microbrewery's licensed premises for the subcontracted and, where applicable, subleased operation of a mobile food unit, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or an independently operated food service provider or establishment, by a person who sells food and nonalcoholic beverages to the public and does not hold a retail liquor license.
(b)(i) The premises used by the mobile food unit, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or independently operated food service provider or establishment, and the areas of the licensee's premises to which staff of such a mobile food unit or independently operated food service provider or establishment may access, must be substantially separated from the storage of nontax-paid alcohol.
(ii) A person who subcontracts or subleases with a microbrewery as provided in (a) of this subsection (9) is responsible for all kitchen space identified in the subcontract or sublease and for compliance with all applicable local health department regulations, including kitchen and food service permits. A diagram of the kitchen plan must be included in the subcontract or sublease, and the subcontract or sublease must evidence agreement of this space to be subcontracted or subleased. A microbrewery subcontracting or subleasing space on its licensed premises as provided in (a) of this subsection (9) shall include in the subcontract or sublease a notification that the other party to the agreement is responsible for the entire subcontracted or subleased space and must hold necessary kitchen and food service permits from the applicable local jurisdiction.
[
2025 c 343 s 17
;
2025 c 141 s 2
; (2022 c 116 s 11 expired December 31, 2023);
2021 c 6 s 5
;
2020 c 230 s 2
;
2015 c 42 s 1
;
2014 c 105 s 3
;
2013 c 238 s 3
;
2011 c 195 s 5
; (2011 c 62 s 3 expired December 1, 2012). Prior:
2008 c 248 s 2
; (2008 c 248 s 1 expired June 30, 2008);
2008 c 41 s 9
; (2008 c 41 s 8 expired June 30, 2008); prior:
2007 c 370 s 5
; (2007 c 370 s 4 expired June 30, 2008);
2007 c 222 s 2
; (2007 c 222 s 1 expired June 30, 2008);
2006 c 302 s 3
;
2006 c 44 s 2
; prior:
2003 c 167 s 1
;
2003 c 154 s 2
;
1998 c 126 s 3
;
1997 c 321 s 12
.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note:
This section was amended by 2025 c 141 s 2 and by 2025 c 343 s 17, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025
(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025
(1).
Expiration date
—
2022 c 116 ss 2-20:
See note following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
Finding
—
Intent
—
2022 c 116:
See notes following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
2021 c 6:
See note following RCW 66.24.140
.
Expiration date
—
2011 c 62:
See note following RCW 66.24.170
.
Effective date
—
2008 c 248 s 2:
"Section 2 of this act takes effect June 30, 2008." [
2008 c 248 s 4
.]
Expiration date
—
2008 c 248 s 1:
"Section 1 of this act expires June 30, 2008." [
2008 c 248 s 3
.]
Effective date
—
2008 c 41 ss 7 and 9:
See note following RCW 66.24.240
.
Expiration date
—
2008 c 41 ss 6 and 8:
See note following RCW 66.24.240
.
Effective date
—
2007 c 370 ss 5 and 7:
"Sections 5 and 7 of this act take effect June 30, 2008." [
2007 c 370 s 22
.]
Expiration date
—
2007 c 370 ss 4 and 6:
"Sections 4 and 6 of this act expire June 30, 2008." [
2007 c 370 s 21
.]
Effective date
—
2007 c 222 s 2:
"Section 2 of this act takes effect June 30, 2008." [
2007 c 222 s 5
.]
Expiration date
—
2007 c 222 s 1:
"Section 1 of this act expires June 30, 2008." [
2007 c 222 s 4
.]
Effective date
—
2006 c 302:
See note following RCW 66.24.170
.
Effective date
—
2003 c 167:
"This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2003." [
2003 c 167 s 14
.]
Report to legislature
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.250
.
Effective date
—
1998 c 126:
See note following RCW 66.20.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
RCW 66.24.246
On-premises endorsement
—
Sale of beer by domestic wineries
—
Sale of wine by domestic breweries or microbreweries
—
Fee.
(1) There is an on-premises endorsement available to any:
(a) Licensed domestic winery to sell beer, produced in Washington, by the single serving for on-premises consumption; and
(b) Licensed domestic brewery or microbrewery to sell wine, produced in Washington, by the single serving for on-premises consumption.
(2) The holder of the endorsement is limited to three offerings of beer for a domestic winery and three offerings of wine for a domestic brewery or microbrewery.
(3) The annual fee for the endorsement is $300 for each retail location.
[
2025 c 343 s 18
;
2020 c 186 s 1
.]
RCW 66.24.248
Packaging services endorsement.
(1) There is an endorsement available to any liquor manufacturer licensed in this state under RCW 66.24.140, 66.24.145, 66.24.170, 66.24.240, or
66.24.244
whereby the licensee may contract with licensed liquor distillers, craft distillers, domestic brewers, microbreweries, wineries, and domestic wineries licensed in this state to provide packaging services that include, but are not limited to:
(a) Canning, bottling, and bagging of alcoholic beverages;
(b) Mixing products before packaging;
(c) Repacking of finished products into mixed consumer packs or multipacks; and
(d) Receiving and returning products to the originating liquor licensed businesses as part of a contract in which the contracting liquor licensed party for which the services are being provided retains title and ownership of the products at all times.
(2) Holders of the endorsement authorized under this section:
(a) May contract with other nonliquor licensed businesses if the contract does not include alcohol products;
(b) May not contract directly or indirectly with any retail liquor licensee for the sale of the alcohol products being packaged under this section, unless they are medicinal, culinary, or toilet preparations not usable as beverages, as described in RCW 66.12.070
;
(c) May not engage in direct liquor sales to retail liquor licensees on behalf of the contracted party or the contracted party's products, except for the sale of alcohol products described in RCW 66.12.070
; and
(d) May not mix or infuse THC, CBD, or any other cannabinoid into any products containing alcohol.
(3) The board shall approve a written request for an endorsement under this section for any authorized licensee in good standing at the time of the request without further requirement for additional licensing or administrative review.
(4) The annual fee for this endorsement is $150.
[
2025 c 343 s 19
;
2022 c 64 s 1
.]
RCW 66.24.250
Beer distributor's license
—
Fee.
There shall be a license for beer distributors to sell beer and strong beer, purchased from licensed Washington breweries, beer certificate of approval holders, licensed beer importers, or suppliers of foreign beer located outside of the United States, to licensed beer retailers and other beer distributors and to export same from the state of Washington; fee $990 per year for each distributing unit.
[
2025 c 343 s 20
;
2004 c 160 s 6
;
2003 c 167 s 2
;
1997 c 321 s 13
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 14
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23E) (adding new section 23-E to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23E.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2004 c 160:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Report to legislature
—
2003 c 167:
"The liquor control board shall report to the legislature by December 1, 2004, on the impacts of strong beer sales." [
2003 c 167 s 13
.]
Effective date
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.261
Beer importer's license
—
Principal office
—
Report
—
Labels
—
Fee.
There shall be a license for beer importers that authorizes the licensee to import beer and strong beer purchased from beer certificate of approval holders into the state of Washington. The licensee may also import, from suppliers located outside of the United States, beer and strong beer manufactured outside the United States.
(1) Beer and strong beer so imported may be sold to licensed beer distributors or exported from the state.
(2) Every person, firm, or corporation licensed as a beer importer shall establish and maintain a principal office within the state at which shall be kept proper records of all beer and strong beer imported into the state under this license.
(3) No beer importer's license shall be granted to a nonresident of the state nor to a corporation whose principal place of business is outside the state until such applicant has established a principal office and agent within the state upon which service can be made.
(4) As a requirement for license approval, a beer importer shall enter into a written agreement with the board to furnish on or before the 20th day of each month, a report under oath, detailing the quantity of beer and strong beer sold or delivered to each licensed beer distributor. Failure to file such reports may result in the suspension or cancellation of this license.
(5) Beer and strong beer imported under this license must conform to the provisions of RCW 66.28.120
and have received label approval from the board. The board shall not certify beer or strong beer labeled with names which may be confused with other nonalcoholic beverages whether manufactured or produced from a domestic brewery or imported nor shall it certify beer or strong beer which fails to meet quality standards established by the board.
(6) The license fee shall be $240 per year.
[
2025 c 343 s 21
;
2004 c 160 s 7
;
2003 c 167 s 3
;
1997 c 321 s 14
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2004 c 160:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Report to legislature
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.250
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
RCW 66.24.270
Manufacturer's monthly report of malt liquor or strong beer sales
—
Certificate of approval
—
Report for out-of-state or imported beer
—
Fee.
(1) Every person, firm or corporation, holding a license to manufacture malt liquors or strong beer within the state of Washington, shall, on or before the twentieth day of each month, furnish to the Washington *state liquor control board, on a form to be prescribed by the board, a statement showing the quantity of malt liquors and strong beer sold for resale during the preceding calendar month to each beer distributor within the state of Washington.
(2)(a) A United States brewery or manufacturer of beer or strong beer, located outside the state of Washington, must hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipment of the certificate of approval holder's beer or strong beer to licensed Washington beer distributors, importers, or retailers. A certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement may act as a distributor for beer of its own production.
(b) Authorized representatives must hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipment of United States produced beer or strong beer to licensed Washington beer distributors or importers.
(c) Authorized representatives must also hold a certificate of approval to allow sales and shipments of foreign produced beer or strong beer to licensed Washington beer distributors or importers.
(3) The certificate of approval shall not be granted unless and until such brewer or manufacturer of beer or strong beer or authorized representative shall have made a written agreement with the board to furnish to the board, on or before the twentieth day of each month, a report under oath, on a form to be prescribed by the board, showing the quantity of beer and strong beer sold or delivered to each licensed beer distributor, importer, or retailer during the preceding month, and shall further have agreed with the board, that such brewer or manufacturer of beer or strong beer or authorized representative and all general sales corporations or agencies maintained by them, and all of their trade representatives, corporations, and agencies, shall and will faithfully comply with all laws of the state of Washington pertaining to the sale of intoxicating liquors and all rules and regulations of the Washington *state liquor control board. A violation of the terms of this agreement will cause the board to take action to suspend or revoke such certificate.
(4) The fee for the certificate of approval and related endorsements, issued pursuant to the provisions of this title, shall be from time to time established by the board at a level that is sufficient to defray the costs of administering the certificate of approval program. The fee shall be fixed by rule by the board in accordance with the provisions of the administrative procedure act, chapter
34.05
RCW.
(5) Certificate of approval holders are deemed to have consented to the jurisdiction of Washington concerning enforcement of this chapter and all laws and rules related to the sale and shipment of beer.
[
2006 c 302 s 6
;
2004 c 160 s 8
;
2003 c 167 s 4
;
1997 c 321 s 15
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 35
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 14
;
1969 ex.s. c 178 s 4
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23F) (adding new section 23-F to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23F. Formerly RCW 66.24.270
and
66.24.280
.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by
2015 c 70 s 3
.
Effective date
—
2006 c 302:
See note following RCW 66.24.170
.
Effective date
—
2004 c 160:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Report to legislature
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.250
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 209:
See notes following RCW 66.20.160
.
RCW 66.24.290
Authorized, prohibited sales
—
Monthly reports
—
Added tax
—
Distribution
—
Late payment penalty
—
Additional taxes, purposes.
(1) Any microbrewer or domestic brewery or beer distributor licensed under this title may sell and deliver beer and strong beer to holders of authorized licenses direct, but to no other person, other than the board. Any certificate of approval holder authorized to act as a distributor under RCW 66.24.270
shall pay the taxes imposed by this section.
(a) Every such brewery or beer distributor shall report all sales to the board monthly, pursuant to the regulations, and shall pay to the board as an added tax for the privilege of manufacturing and selling the beer and strong beer within the state a tax of one dollar and thirty cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons on sales to licensees within the state and on sales to licensees within the state of bottled and canned beer, including strong beer, shall pay a tax computed in gallons at the rate of one dollar and thirty cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons.
(b) Any brewery or beer distributor whose applicable tax payment is not postmarked by the twentieth day following the month of sale will be assessed a penalty at the rate of two percent per month or fraction thereof. Beer and strong beer shall be sold by breweries and distributors in sealed barrels or packages.
(c) The moneys collected under this subsection shall be distributed as follows: (i) Three-tenths of a percent shall be distributed to border areas under RCW 66.08.195
; and (ii) of the remaining moneys: (A) Twenty percent shall be distributed to counties in the same manner as under RCW 66.08.200
; and (B) eighty percent shall be distributed to incorporated cities and towns in the same manner as under RCW 66.08.210
.
(d) Any licensed retailer authorized to purchase beer from a certificate of approval holder with a direct shipment endorsement or a brewery or microbrewery shall make monthly reports to the *liquor control board on beer purchased during the preceding calendar month in the manner and upon such forms as may be prescribed by the board.
(2) An additional tax is imposed on all beer and strong beer subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to two dollars per barrel of thirty-one gallons. All revenues collected during any month from this additional tax shall be deposited in the state general fund by the twenty-fifth day of the following month.
(3)(a) An additional tax is imposed on all beer and strong beer subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to ninety-six cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons through June 30, 1995, two dollars and thirty-nine cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons for the period July 1, 1995, through June 30, 1997, and four dollars and seventy-eight cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons thereafter.
(b) The additional tax imposed under this subsection does not apply to the sale of the first sixty thousand barrels of beer each year by breweries that are entitled to a reduced rate of tax under 26 U.S.C. Sec. 5051, as existing on July 1, 1993, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the board by rule consistent with the purposes of this exemption.
(c) All revenues collected from the additional tax imposed under this subsection (3) shall be deposited in the state general fund.
(4) An additional tax is imposed on all beer and strong beer that is subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section that is in the first sixty thousand barrels of beer and strong beer by breweries that are entitled to a reduced rate of tax under 26 U.S.C. Sec. 5051, as existing on July 1, 1993, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the board by rule consistent with the purposes of the exemption under subsection (3)(b) of this section. The additional tax is equal to one dollar and forty-eight and two-tenths cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons. By the twenty-fifth day of the following month, three percent of the revenues collected from this additional tax shall be distributed to border areas under RCW 66.08.195
and the remaining moneys shall be transferred to the state general fund.
(5)(a) From June 1, 2010, through June 30, 2013, an additional tax is imposed on all beer and strong beer subject to tax under subsection (1) of this section. The additional tax is equal to fifteen dollars and fifty cents per barrel of thirty-one gallons.
(b) The additional tax imposed under this subsection does not apply to the sale of the first sixty thousand barrels of beer each year by breweries that are entitled to a reduced rate of tax under 26 U.S.C. Sec. 5051 of the federal internal revenue code, as existing on July 1, 1993, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the board by rule consistent with the purposes of this exemption.
(c) All revenues collected from the additional tax imposed under this subsection shall be deposited in the state general fund.
(6) The board may make refunds for all taxes paid on beer and strong beer exported from the state for use outside the state.
(7) The board may require filing with the board of a bond to be approved by it, in such amount as the board may fix, securing the payment of the tax. If any licensee fails to pay the tax when due, the board may forthwith suspend or cancel his or her license until all taxes are paid.
[
2010 1st sp.s. c 23 s 1301
;
2009 c 479 s 43
;
2006 c 302 s 7
;
2003 c 167 s 5
;
1999 c 281 s 14
. Prior:
1997 c 451 s 1
;
1997 c 321 s 16
;
1995 c 232 s 4
;
1994 sp.s. c 7 s 902
(Referendum Bill No. 43, approved November 8, 1994);
1993 c 492 s 311
;
1989 c 271 s 502
;
1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 s 11
;
1982 1st ex.s. c 35 s 24
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 16
;
1965 ex.s. c 173 s 30
;
1933 ex.s. c 62 s 24
; RRS s 7306-24.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note:
The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by
2015 c 70 s 3
.
Effective date
—
2010 1st sp.s. c 23:
See note following RCW 82.04.4292
.
Findings
—
Intent
—
2010 1st sp.s. c 23:
See notes following RCW 82.04.220
.
Effective date
—
2009 c 479:
See note following RCW 2.56.030
.
Effective date
—
2006 c 302:
See note following RCW 66.24.170
.
Effective date
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Report to legislature
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.250
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 451:
"This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 1997." [
1997 c 451 s 5
.]
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Contingent partial referendum
—
1994 sp.s. c 7 ss 901-909:
See note following RCW 66.24.210
.
Finding
—
Intent
—
Severability
—
1994 sp.s. c 7:
See notes following RCW 43.70.540
.
Findings
—
Intent
—
1993 c 492:
See notes following RCW 43.20.050
.
Short title
—
Savings
—
Reservation of legislative power
—
Effective dates
—
1993 c 492:
See RCW 43.72.910
through
43.72.915
.
Effective dates
—
1989 c 271:
See note following RCW 66.28.200
.
Severability
—
1989 c 271:
See note following RCW 9.94A.510
.
Construction
—
Severability
—
Effective dates
—
1983 2nd ex.s. c 3:
See notes following RCW 82.04.255
.
Severability
—
Effective dates
—
1982 1st ex.s. c 35:
See notes following RCW 82.08.020
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Severability
—
1965 ex.s. c 173:
See note following RCW 82.98.030
.
Giving away of liquor prohibited
—
Exceptions: RCW 66.28.040
.
RCW 66.24.305
Refunds of taxes on unsalable wine and beer.
The board may refund the tax on wine imposed by RCW 66.24.210, and the tax on beer imposed by RCW 66.24.290, when such taxpaid products have been deemed to be unsalable and are destroyed within the state in accordance with procedures established by the board.
[
1975 1st ex.s. c 173 s 11
.]
NOTES:
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1975 1st ex.s. c 173:
See notes following RCW 66.08.050
.
RCW 66.24.310
Representative's license
—
Qualifications
—
Conditions and restrictions
—
Fee.
(1)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, no person may canvass for, solicit, receive, or take orders for the purchase or sale of liquor, nor contact any licensees of the board in goodwill activities, unless the person is the representative of a licensee or certificate holder authorized by this title to sell liquor for resale in the state and has applied for and received a representative's license.
(b) (a) of this subsection does not apply to: (i) Drivers who deliver spirits, beer, or wine; or (ii) domestic wineries or their employees.
(2) Every representative's license issued under this title is subject to all conditions and restrictions imposed by this title or by the rules and regulations of the board; the board, for the purpose of maintaining an orderly market, may limit the number of representative's licenses issued for representation of specific classes of eligible employers.
(3) Every application for a representative's license must be approved by a holder of a certificate of approval, a licensed beer distributor, a licensed domestic brewer, a licensed beer importer, a licensed microbrewer, a licensed domestic winery, a licensed wine importer, a licensed wine distributor, or by a distiller, manufacturer, importer, or distributor of spirits, or of foreign-produced beer or wine, as required by the rules and regulations of the board.
(4) The fee for a representative's license is $50 per year.
[
2025 c 343 s 22
;
2012 c 2 s 111
(Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011);
2011 c 119 s 301
;
1997 c 321 s 17
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 36
; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 74 s 1;
1971 ex.s. c 138 s 1
;
1969 ex.s. c 21 s 5
;
1939 c 172 s 2
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23I) (adding new section 23-I to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23I.]
NOTES:
Finding
—
Application
—
Rules
—
Effective date
—
Contingent effective date
—
2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183):
See notes following RCW 66.24.620
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Effective date
—
1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 74:
"The effective date of this 1976 amendatory act shall be July 1, 1976." [1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 74 s 4.]
Effective date
—
1969 ex.s. c 21:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
RCW 66.24.330
Tavern license
—
Fees.
(1) There is a beer and wine retailer's license to be designated as a tavern license to sell beer, including strong beer, or wine, or both, at retail, for consumption on the premises. Such licenses may be issued only to a person operating a tavern that may be frequented only by persons 21 years of age and older.
(2) The annual fee for the license is $300 for the beer license, $300 for the wine license, or $600 for a combination beer and wine license.
(3)(a) The board may issue a caterer's endorsement to this license to allow the licensee to remove from the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, only those types of liquor that are authorized under the on-premises license privileges for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and, except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, place not currently licensed by the board. If the event is open to the public, it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375
. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375
is waived. Cost of the endorsement is $525.
(b) The holder of this license with a catering endorsement must, if requested by the board, notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any catered event. Upon request, the licensee must provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the society or organization that will be holding the function at which the endorsed license will be utilized.
(c) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on the premises of another not licensed by the board so long as there is a written agreement between the licensee and the other party to provide for ongoing catering services, the agreement contains no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and the agreement is filed with the board.
(d) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on other premises operated by the licensee so long as the other premises are owned or controlled by a leasehold interest by that licensee. A duplicate license may be issued for each additional premises. A license fee of $30 is required for such duplicate licenses.
(4) Licensees under this section that hold a caterer's endorsement are allowed to use this endorsement on a domestic winery premises and may store liquor at such premises under conditions established by the board under the following conditions:
(a) Agreements between the domestic winery and the retail licensee must be in writing, contain no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and be filed with the board; and
(b) The domestic winery and the retail licensee may be separately contracted and compensated by the persons sponsoring the event for their respective services.
(5) The holder of this license or its manager may furnish beer or wine to the licensee's employees free of charge as may be required for use in connection with instruction on beer and wine. The instruction may include the history, nature, values, and characteristics of beer or wine, the use of wine lists, and the methods of presenting, serving, storing, and handling beer or wine. The tavern licensee must use the beer or wine it obtains under its license for the sampling as part of the instruction. The instruction must be given on the premises of the tavern licensee.
(6) Any person serving liquor at a catered event on behalf of a licensee with a caterer's endorsement under this section must be an employee of the licensee and must possess a class 12 alcohol server permit as required under RCW 66.20.310
.
(7) The board may issue rules as necessary to implement the requirements of this section.
[
2025 c 343 s 24
; (2022 c 116 s 13 expired December 31, 2023);
2021 c 6 s 7
;
2017 c 252 s 1
; (2009 c 507 s 2 expired July 1, 2011);
2003 c 167 s 7
;
1997 c 321 s 19
;
1995 c 232 s 7
;
1991 c 42 s 2
;
1987 c 458 s 12
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 38
;
1977 ex.s. c 9 s 2
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 15
;
1967 ex.s. c 75 s 3
;
1941 c 220 s 2
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23N) (adding new section 23-N to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1941 s 7306-23N.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2022 c 116 ss 2-20:
See note following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
Finding
—
Intent
—
2022 c 116:
See notes following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
2021 c 6:
See note following RCW 66.24.140
.
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Effective date
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Report to legislature
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.250
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Severability
—
1987 c 458:
See note following RCW 48.21.160
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 209:
See notes following RCW 66.20.160
.
Effective date
—
1967 ex.s. c 75:
See note following RCW 66.08.180
.
RCW 66.24.350
Snack bar license
—
Fee.
There shall be a beer retailer's license to be designated as a snack bar license to sell beer by the opened bottle or can at retail, for consumption upon the premises only, such license to be issued to places where the sale of beer is not the principal business conducted; fee $187.50 per year.
[
2025 c 343 s 25
; (2022 c 116 s 14 expired December 31, 2023);
2021 c 6 s 8
; (2009 c 507 s 3 expired July 1, 2011);
1997 c 321 s 20
;
1991 c 42 s 3
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 40
;
1967 ex.s. c 75 s 5
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23P) (adding new section 23-P to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23P.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2022 c 116 ss 2-20:
See note following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
Finding
—
Intent
—
2022 c 116:
See notes following RCW 66.24.420
.
Effective date
—
2021 c 6:
See note following RCW 66.24.140
.
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Effective date
—
1967 ex.s. c 75:
See note following RCW 66.08.180
.
RCW 66.24.354
Combined license
—
Sale of beer and wine for consumption on and off premises
—
Conditions
—
Fee.
There shall be a beer and wine retailer's license that may be combined only with the on-premises licenses described in either RCW 66.24.320
or
66.24.330
. The combined license permits the sale of beer and wine for consumption off the premises.
(1) Beer and wine sold for consumption off the premises must be in original sealed packages of the manufacturer or bottler.
(2) Beer may be sold to a purchaser in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser and filled at the tap by the retailer at the time of sale.
(3) Licensees holding this type of license also may sell malt liquor in kegs or other containers that are capable of holding four gallons or more of liquid and are registered in accordance with RCW 66.28.200
.
(4) The board may impose conditions upon the issuance of this license to best protect and preserve the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
(5) The annual fee for this license shall be $180.
[
2025 c 343 s 26
; (2009 c 507 s 4 expired July 1, 2011);
1997 c 321 s 21
.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
RCW 66.24.360
Grocery store license
—
Fees
—
Restricted license
—
Determination of public interest
—
Inventory
—
Endorsements.
(1) There is a grocery store license to sell wine and/or beer, including without limitation strong beer at retail in original containers, not to be consumed upon the premises where sold.
(2) There is a wine retailer reseller endorsement of a grocery store license, to sell wine at retail in original containers to retailers licensed to sell wine for consumption on the premises, for resale at their licensed premises according to the terms of the license. For the purposes of this title, a grocery store license is a retail license, and a sale by a grocery store licensee with a reseller endorsement is a retail sale only if not for resale.
(3) Licensees obtaining a written endorsement from the board may also sell malt liquor in kegs or other containers capable of holding less than 5.5 gallons of liquid.
(4) The annual fee for the grocery store license is $550 for each store.
(5) The annual fee for the wine retailer reseller endorsement is $249 for each store.
(6)(a) Upon approval by the board, a grocery store licensee with revenues derived from beer and/or wine sales exceeding 50 percent of total revenues or that maintains an alcohol inventory of not less than $15,000 may also receive an endorsement to permit the sale of beer and cider, as defined in RCW 66.24.210
(6), in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser, or provided by the licensee or manufacturer, and filled at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale by an employee of the licensee holding a class 12 alcohol server permit.
(b) Pursuant to RCW 74.08.580
(1)(f), a person may not use an electronic benefit transfer card for the purchase of any product authorized for sale under this section.
(c) The board may, by rule, establish fees to be paid by licensees receiving the endorsement authorized under this subsection (6), as necessary to cover the costs of implementing and enforcing the provisions of this subsection (6).
(7) The board must issue a restricted grocery store license authorizing the licensee to sell beer and only table wine, if the board finds upon issuance or renewal of the license that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be against the public interest. In determining the public interest, the board must consider at least the following factors:
(a) The likelihood that the applicant will sell strong beer or fortified wine to persons who are intoxicated;
(b) Law enforcement problems in the vicinity of the applicant's establishment that may arise from persons purchasing strong beer or fortified wine at the establishment; and
(c) Whether the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be detrimental to or inconsistent with a government-operated or funded alcohol treatment or detoxification program in the area.
If the board receives no evidence or objection that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be against the public interest, it must issue or renew the license without restriction, as applicable. The burden of establishing that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine by the licensee would be against the public interest is on those persons objecting.
(8) Licensees holding a grocery store license must maintain a minimum $3,000 inventory of food products for human consumption, not including pop, beer, strong beer, or wine.
(9) A grocery store licensee with a wine retailer reseller endorsement may accept delivery of wine at its licensed premises or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, and from which it may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted by this title, to other licensed premises, to other registered facilities, or to lawful purchasers outside the state. Facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of grocery store licensees.
(10) Upon approval by the board, the grocery store licensee may also receive an endorsement to permit the international export of beer, strong beer, and wine.
(a) Any beer, strong beer, or wine sold under this endorsement must have been purchased from a licensed beer or wine distributor licensed to do business within the state of Washington.
(b) Any beer, strong beer, and wine sold under this endorsement must be intended for consumption outside the state of Washington and the United States and appropriate records must be maintained by the licensee.
(c) Any beer, strong beer, or wine sold under this endorsement must be sold at a price no less than the acquisition price paid by the holder of the license.
(d) The annual cost of this endorsement is $750 and is in addition to the license fees paid by the licensee for a grocery store license.
(11) A grocery store licensee holding a snack bar license under RCW 66.24.350
may receive an endorsement to allow the sale of confections containing more than one percent but not more than 10 percent alcohol by weight to persons 21 years of age or older.
(12) The board may adopt rules to implement this section.
(13) Nothing in this section limits the authority of the board to regulate the sale of beer or cider or container sizes under rules adopted pursuant to RCW 66.08.030
.
(14) Any endorsement issued pursuant to this section or RCW 66.24.363
may be issued to a qualified combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee in accordance with RCW 66.24.035
(10).
(15)(a) A grocery store licensee that also holds a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630
may, upon board approval and pursuant to board rules, transition to a combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035
.
(b) An applicant that would qualify for a grocery store license under this section and a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630
may apply for a single license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035
instead of applying for a grocery store license under this section in addition to a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630
.
[
2025 c 343 s 27
;
2025 c 95 s 3
;
2017 c 96 s 2
;
2015 c 192 s 1
;
2012 c 2 s 104
(Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011);
2011 c 119 s 203
; (2009 c 507 s 5 expired July 1, 2011);
2007 c 226 s 2
;
2003 c 167 s 8
;
1997 c 321 s 22
;
1993 c 21 s 1
;
1991 c 42 s 4
;
1987 c 46 s 1
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 41
;
1967 ex.s. c 75 s 6
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23Q) (adding new section 23-Q to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23Q.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note:
This section was amended by 2025 c 95 s 3 and by 2025 c 343 s 27, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025
(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025
(1).
Finding
—
Application
—
Rules
—
Effective date
—
Contingent effective date
—
2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183):
See notes following RCW 66.24.620
.
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Application to certain retailers
—
2003 c 167 ss 8 and 9:
"Sections 8 and 9 of this act apply to retailers who hold a restricted grocery store license or restricted beer and/or wine specialty shop license on or after July 1, 2003." [
2003 c 167 s 12
.]
Effective date
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Report to legislature
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.250
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Effective date
—
1967 ex.s. c 75:
See note following RCW 66.08.180
.
Employees under eighteen allowed to handle beer or wine: RCW 66.44.340
.
RCW 66.24.363
Grocery store
—
Beer and wine tasting endorsement.
(1) A grocery store licensed under RCW 66.24.360
may apply for an endorsement to offer beer and wine tasting under this section.
(2) To be issued an endorsement, a licensee must meet the following criteria:
(a) The licensee operates a fully enclosed retail area encompassing at least 10,000 square feet of fully enclosed retail space within a single structure, including storerooms and other interior auxiliary areas but excluding covered or fenced exterior areas, whether or not attached to the structure, except that the board may issue an endorsement to a licensee with a retail area encompassing less than 10,000 square feet if the board determines that no licensee in the community the licensee serves meets the square footage requirement and the licensee meets operational requirements established by the board by rule; and
(b) The licensee has not had more than one public safety violation within the past two years.
(3) A tasting must be conducted under the following conditions:
(a) Each sample must be two ounces or less, up to a total of four ounces, per customer during any one visit to the premises;
(b) No more than one sample of the same product offering of beer or wine may be provided to a customer during any one visit to the premises;
(c) The licensee must have food available for the tasting participants;
(d) Customers must remain in the service area while consuming samples; and
(e) The service area and facilities must be located within the licensee's fully enclosed retail area and must be of a size and design such that the licensee can observe and control persons in the area to ensure that persons under 21 years of age and apparently intoxicated persons cannot possess or consume alcohol.
(4) Employees of licensees whose duties include serving during tasting activities under this section must hold a class 12 alcohol server permit.
(5) Tasting activities under this section are subject to RCW 66.28.305
and
66.28.040
and the cost of sampling may not be borne, directly or indirectly, by any liquor manufacturer, importer, or distributor.
(6) A licensee may advertise a tasting event only within the store, on a store website, in store newsletters and flyers, and via email and mail to customers who have requested notice of events. Advertising under this subsection may not be targeted to or appeal principally to youth.
(7)(a) If a licensee is found to have committed a public safety violation in conjunction with tasting activities, the board may suspend the licensee's tasting endorsement and not reissue the endorsement for up to two years from the date of the violation. If mitigating circumstances exist, the board may offer a monetary penalty in lieu of suspension during a settlement conference.
(b) The board may revoke an endorsement granted to a licensee that is located within the boundaries of an alcohol impact area recognized by resolution of the board if the board finds that the tasting activities by the licensee are having an adverse effect on the reduction of chronic public inebriation in the area.
(c) RCW 66.08.150
applies to the suspension or revocation of an endorsement.
(8) The board may establish additional requirements under this section to assure that persons under 21 years of age and apparently intoxicated persons cannot possess or consume alcohol.
(9) The annual fee for the endorsement is $300. The board shall review the fee annually and may increase the fee by rule to a level sufficient to defray the cost of administration and enforcement of the endorsement, except that the board may not increase the fee by more than ten percent annually.
(10) The board must adopt rules to implement this section.
(11) An endorsement issued pursuant to this section may be issued to a qualified combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee in accordance with RCW 66.24.035
.
[
2025 c 343 s 28
;
2017 c 96 s 5
;
2013 c 52 s 1
;
2010 c 141 s 1
.]
RCW 66.24.371
Beer and/or wine specialty shop license
—
Fee
—
Samples
—
Restricted license
—
Determination of public interest
—
Inventory.
(1) There shall be a beer and/or wine retailer's license to be designated as a beer and/or wine specialty shop license to sell beer, strong beer, and/or wine at retail in bottles, cans, and original containers, not to be consumed upon the premises where sold, at any store other than the state liquor stores. Licensees obtaining a written endorsement from the board may also sell malt liquor in kegs or other containers capable of holding four gallons or more of liquid. The annual fee for the beer and/or wine specialty shop license is $150 for each store. The sale of any container holding four gallons or more must comply with RCW 66.28.200
and
66.28.220
.
(2) Licensees under this section may provide, free or for a charge, single-serving samples of two ounces or less to customers for the purpose of sales promotion. Sampling activities of licensees under this section are subject to RCW 66.28.305
and
66.28.040
and the cost of sampling under this section may not be borne, directly or indirectly, by any manufacturer, importer, or distributor of liquor.
(3) Upon approval by the board, the beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee that exceeds 50 percent beer and/or wine sales may also receive an endorsement to permit the sale of beer to a purchaser in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser, or provided by the licensee or manufacturer, and fill at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale. If the beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee does not exceed 50 percent beer and/or wine sales, the board may waive the 50 percent beer and/or wine sale criteria if the beer and/or wine specialty shop maintains alcohol inventory that exceeds $15,000.
(4) The board shall issue a restricted beer and/or wine specialty shop license, authorizing the licensee to sell beer and only table wine, if the board finds upon issuance or renewal of the license that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be against the public interest. In determining the public interest, the board shall consider at least the following factors:
(a) The likelihood that the applicant will sell strong beer or fortified wine to persons who are intoxicated;
(b) Law enforcement problems in the vicinity of the applicant's establishment that may arise from persons purchasing strong beer or fortified wine at the establishment; and
(c) Whether the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be detrimental to or inconsistent with a government-operated or funded alcohol treatment or detoxification program in the area.
If the board receives no evidence or objection that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine would be against the public interest, it shall issue or renew the license without restriction, as applicable. The burden of establishing that the sale of strong beer or fortified wine by the licensee would be against the public interest is on those persons objecting.
(5) Licensees holding a beer and/or wine specialty shop license must maintain a minimum $3,000 wholesale inventory of beer, strong beer, and/or wine.
(6) The board may adopt rules to implement this section.
(7) Any endorsement issued pursuant to this section may be issued to a qualified combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee in accordance with RCW 66.24.035
.
(8)(a) A beer and/or wine specialty shop licensee that also holds a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630
may, upon board approval and pursuant to board rules, transition to a combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035
.
(b) An applicant that would qualify for a beer and/or wine specialty shop license under this section and a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630
may apply for a single license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035
instead of applying for a beer and/or wine specialty shop license under this section in addition to a spirits retail license under RCW 66.24.630
.
[
2025 c 343 s 29
;
2017 c 96 s 3
. Prior:
2011 c 195 s 4
;
2011 c 119 s 204
; (2009 c 507 s 6 expired July 1, 2011);
2009 c 373 s 6
;
2003 c 167 s 9
;
1997 c 321 s 23
.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Application to certain retailers
—
2003 c 167 ss 8 and 9:
See note following RCW 66.24.360
.
Effective date
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.244
.
Report to legislature
—
2003 c 167:
See note following RCW 66.24.250
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
RCW 66.24.375
"Society or organization" defined for certain purposes.
"Society or organization" as used in RCW 66.24.380
means a not-for-profit group organized and operated (1) solely for charitable, religious, social, political, educational, civic, fraternal, athletic, or benevolent purposes, or (2) as a local wine industry association registered under section 501(c)(6) of the internal revenue code as it exists on July 22, 2007. No portion of the profits from events sponsored by a not-for-profit group may be paid directly or indirectly to members, officers, directors, or trustees except for services performed for the organization. Any compensation paid to its officers and executives must be only for actual services and at levels comparable to the compensation for like positions within the state. A society or organization which is registered with the secretary of state or the federal internal revenue service as a nonprofit organization shall submit such registration, upon request, as proof that it is a not-for-profit group.
[
2007 c 370 s 1
;
1997 c 321 s 61
;
1981 c 287 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 c 287:
"This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1981." [
1981 c 287 s 3
.]
RCW 66.24.380
Special occasion license
—
Fee
—
Penalty.
(Effective until December 31, 2027.)
There is a retailer's license to be designated as a special occasion license to be issued to a not-for-profit society or organization to sell spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified event, such as at picnics or other special occasions, at a specified date and place; fee $90 per day except the board may establish an additional daily fee for each day of operation at an event conducted under RCW 66.24.800
(2) or (4).
(1) The not-for-profit society or organization is limited to sales of no more than 12 calendar days per year, except that this limitation is waived for participation in any event conducted under RCW 66.24.800
(2) or (4) which may not count toward a not-for-profit society or organization's 12 calendar days of sales. For the purposes of this subsection, special occasion licensees that are "agricultural area fairs" or "agricultural county, district, and area fairs," as defined by RCW 15.76.120, that receive a special occasion license may, once per calendar year, count as one event fairs that last multiple days, so long as alcohol sales are at set dates, times, and locations, and the board receives prior notification of the dates, times, and locations. The special occasion license applicant will pay the $90 per day for this event.
(2) The licensee may sell spirits, beer, and/or wine in original, unopened containers for off-premises consumption if permission is obtained from the board prior to the event.
(3) In addition to offering the sale of wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption, the licensee may sell wine in original, unopened containers for on-premises consumption if permission is obtained from the board prior to the event. The authorization in this subsection (3) is not available at events conducted under RCW 66.24.800
(2) or (4).
(4) Sale, service, and consumption of spirits, beer, and wine is to be confined to specified premises or designated areas only, except as authorized in RCW 66.24.800
(2) and (4).
(5) Liquor sold under this special occasion license must be purchased from a licensee of the board.
(6) Any violation of this section is a class 1 civil infraction having a maximum penalty of $250 as provided for in chapter
7.80
RCW. At the board's discretion, repeat violations at an event authorized under RCW 66.24.800
(2) or (4) within a two-year period can be cause for denial of a license under this section or participation in future events.
[
2025 c 361 s 3
;
2025 c 343 s 30
;
2016 c 235 s 2
;
2012 c 2 s 112
(Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011);
2005 c 151 s 10
;
2004 c 133 s 2
;
1997 c 321 s 24
;
1988 c 200 s 2
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 43
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 17
;
1969 ex.s. c 178 s 5
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23S) (adding new section 23-S to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23S.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note:
This section was amended by 2025 c 343 s 30 and by 2025 c 361 s 3, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025
(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025
(1).
Finding
—
Intent
—
Expiration date
—
2025 c 361:
See notes following RCW 66.24.800
.
Finding
—
Application
—
Rules
—
Effective date
—
Contingent effective date
—
2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183):
See notes following RCW 66.24.620
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 209:
See notes following RCW 66.20.160
.
"Society or organization" defined for certain purposes: RCW 66.24.375
.
PDF
RCW 66.24.380
Special occasion license
—
Fee
—
Penalty.
(Effective December 31, 2027.)
There is a retailer's license to be designated as a special occasion license to be issued to a not-for-profit society or organization to sell spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified event, such as at picnics or other special occasions, at a specified date and place; fee $90 per day.
(1) The not-for-profit society or organization is limited to sales of no more than 12 calendar days per year. For the purposes of this subsection, special occasion licensees that are "agricultural area fairs" or "agricultural county, district, and area fairs," as defined by RCW 15.76.120, that receive a special occasion license may, once per calendar year, count as one event fairs that last multiple days, so long as alcohol sales are at set dates, times, and locations, and the board receives prior notification of the dates, times, and locations. The special occasion license applicant will pay the $90 per day for this event.
(2) The licensee may sell spirits, beer, and/or wine in original, unopened containers for off-premises consumption if permission is obtained from the board prior to the event.
(3) In addition to offering the sale of wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption, the licensee may sell wine in original, unopened containers for on-premises consumption if permission is obtained from the board prior to the event.
(4) Sale, service, and consumption of spirits, beer, and wine is to be confined to specified premises or designated areas only.
(5) Liquor sold under this special occasion license must be purchased from a licensee of the board.
(6) Any violation of this section is a class 1 civil infraction having a maximum penalty of $250 as provided for in chapter
7.80
RCW.
[
2025 c 343 s 30
;
2016 c 235 s 2
;
2012 c 2 s 112
(Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011);
2005 c 151 s 10
;
2004 c 133 s 2
;
1997 c 321 s 24
;
1988 c 200 s 2
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 43
;
1973 1st ex.s. c 209 s 17
;
1969 ex.s. c 178 s 5
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23S) (adding new section 23-S to 1933 ex.s. c 62); RRS s 7306-23S.]
NOTES:
Finding
—
Application
—
Rules
—
Effective date
—
Contingent effective date
—
2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183):
See notes following RCW 66.24.620
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
Severability
—
Effective date
—
1973 1st ex.s. c 209:
See notes following RCW 66.20.160
.
"Society or organization" defined for certain purposes: RCW 66.24.375
.
RCW 66.24.395
Interstate common carrier's licenses
—
Class CCI
—
Fees
—
Scope.
(1)(a) There shall be a license that may be issued to corporations, associations, or persons operating as federally licensed commercial common passenger carriers engaged in interstate commerce, in or over territorial limits of the state of Washington on passenger trains, vessels, or airplanes. Such license shall permit the sale of spirituous liquor, wine, and beer at retail for passenger consumption within the state upon one such train passenger car, vessel, or airplane, while in or over the territorial limits of the state. Such license shall include the privilege of transporting into and storing within the state such liquor for subsequent retail sale to passengers in passenger train cars, vessels or airplanes. The fees for such master license shall be $1,125 per annum (class CCI-1). Upon payment of an additional sum of $7.50 per annum per car, or vessel, or airplane, the privileges authorized by such license classes shall extend to additional cars, or vessels, or airplanes operated by the same licensee within the state, and a duplicate license for each additional car, or vessel, or airplane shall be issued. Such licensee may make such sales and/or service upon cars, or vessels, or airplanes in emergency for not more than five consecutive days without such license. Such license shall be valid only while such cars, or vessels, or airplanes are actively operated as common carriers for hire in interstate commerce and not while they are out of such common carrier service.
(b) Alcoholic beverages sold and/or served for consumption by such interstate common carriers while within or over the territorial limits of this state shall be subject to such board markup and state liquor taxes in an amount to approximate the revenue that would have been realized from such markup and taxes had the alcoholic beverages been purchased in Washington. However, the board's markup shall be applied on spirituous liquor only. Such common carriers shall report such sales and/or service and pay such markup and taxes in accordance with procedures prescribed by the board.
(2) Alcoholic beverages sold and delivered in this state to interstate common carriers for use under the provisions of this section shall be considered exported from the state, subject to the conditions provided in subsection (1)(b) of this section. Interstate common carriers licensed under this section may purchase alcoholic beverages outside the territorial limits of the state of Washington and import such alcoholic beverages into the state of Washington for sales and service aboard passenger trains, vessels, or airplanes. The storage facilities for liquor within the state by common carriers licensed under this section shall be subject to written approval by the board.
(3) Interstate common carriers licensed under this section may provide complimentary alcoholic beverages to passengers aboard passenger trains, vessels, or airplanes.
[
2025 c 343 s 31
;
2020 c 200 s 2
; (2009 c 507 s 7 expired July 1, 2011);
1997 c 321 s 25
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 44
;
1975 1st ex.s. c 245 s 2
.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.400
Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license
—
Liquor by the bottle for hotel or club guests
—
Soju endorsement
—
Removing unconsumed liquor, when.
(1) There shall be a retailer's license, to be known and designated as a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license, to sell spirituous liquor by the individual glass, beer, and wine, at retail, for consumption on the premises, including mixed drinks and cocktails compounded or mixed on the premises only. A club licensed under chapter
70.62
RCW with overnight sleeping accommodations, that is licensed under this section may sell liquor by the bottle to registered guests of the club for consumption in guest rooms, hospitality rooms, or at banquets in the club. A patron of a bona fide restaurant or club licensed under this section may remove from the premises recorked or recapped in its original container any portion of wine or sake which was purchased for consumption with a meal, and registered guests who have purchased liquor from the club by the bottle may remove from the premises any unused portion of such liquor in its original container. Such license may be issued only to bona fide restaurants and clubs, and to dining, club and buffet cars on passenger trains, and to dining places on passenger boats and airplanes, and to dining places at civic centers with facilities for sports, entertainment, and conventions, and to such other establishments operated and maintained primarily for the benefit of tourists, vacationers and travelers as the board shall determine are qualified to have, and in the discretion of the board should have, a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license under the provisions and limitations of this title.
(2) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to sell bottled wine for off-premises consumption. Spirits and beer may not be sold for off-premises consumption under this section except as provided in subsection (4) of this section. The annual fee for the endorsement under this subsection is $180.
(3) The holder of a spirits, beer, and wine license or its manager may furnish beer, wine, or spirituous liquor to the licensee's employees free of charge as may be required for use in connection with instruction on beer, wine, or spirituous liquor. The instruction may include the history, nature, values, and characteristics of beer, wine, or spirituous liquor, the use of wine lists, and the methods of presenting, serving, storing, and handling beer, wine, and spirituous liquor. The spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensee must use the beer, wine, or spirituous liquor it obtains under its license for the sampling as part of the instruction. The instruction must be given on the premises of the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensee.
(4) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to sell for off-premises consumption malt liquor in kegs or other containers that are capable of holding four gallons or more of liquid and are registered in accordance with RCW 66.28.200
. Beer may also be sold under the endorsement to a purchaser in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap by the retailer at the time of sale. The annual fee for the endorsement under this subsection is $180.
(5)(a) The board shall create a soju endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to serve soju for on-premises consumption by the bottle to tables of two or more patrons 21 years of age or older. Cost of the endorsement is $75.
(b) The holder of a soju endorsement may serve soju in bottles that are 375 milliliters or less. Empty bottles of soju must remain on the patron's table until the patron has left the premises of the licensee.
(c) The patron of a holder of a soju endorsement may remove from the premises recapped in its original container any unused portion of soju that was purchased for consumption with a meal.
(d) The board must develop additional responsible sale and service of soju training curriculum related to the provisions of the soju endorsement under this subsection (5) that includes but is not limited to certification procedures and enforcement policies. This information must be provided in both Korean and English languages to licensees holding the soju endorsement. Soju endorsement holders must ensure servers providing soju to patrons are trained in the soju curriculum developed under this subsection (5).
(6) A domestic brewery or microbrewery that contracts with one or more mobile food units, as defined in RCW 43.20.025, or independently operated food service providers or establishments may be issued a license under this section as provided in RCW 66.24.240
(4) and
66.24.244
(5).
[
2025 c 343 s 32
;
2025 c 141 s 4
. Prior:
2019 c 169 s 3
;
2019 c 61 s 2
;
2011 c 119 s 401
; (2009 c 507 s 8 expired July 1, 2011);
2008 c 41 s 10
; prior:
2007 c 370 s 13
;
2007 c 53 s 1
;
2005 c 152 s 2
;
2001 c 199 s 4
;
1998 c 126 s 5
;
1997 c 321 s 26
;
1987 c 196 s 1
;
1986 c 208 s 1
;
1981 c 94 s 2
;
1977 ex.s. c 9 s 4
;
1971 ex.s. c 208 s 1
;
1949 c 5 s 1
(adding new section 23-S-1 to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23S-1.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note:
This section was amended by 2025 c 141 s 4 and by 2025 c 343 s 32, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025
(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025
(1).
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Effective date
—
2008 c 41 ss 3, 10, and 11:
See note following RCW 66.20.310
.
Effective date
—
2007 c 370 ss 10-20:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
1998 c 126:
See note following RCW 66.20.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1986 c 208:
"This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect on May 1, 1986." [
1986 c 208 s 2
.]
RCW 66.24.410
Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license
—
Terms defined.
(1) "Spirituous liquor," as used in RCW 66.24.400
through
66.24.450, inclusive, means "liquor" as defined in RCW 66.04.010, except "wine" and "beer" sold as such.
(2) "Restaurant" as used in RCW 66.24.400
through
66.24.450, inclusive, means an establishment provided with special space and accommodations where, in consideration of payment, food, without lodgings, is habitually furnished to the public, not including drug stores and soda fountains: PROVIDED, That such establishments shall be approved by the board and that the board shall be satisfied that such establishment is maintained in a substantial manner as a place for preparing, cooking, and serving of complete meals or is a domestic brewery or a microbrewery that subcontracts with one or more individuals or entities to satisfy food service requirements, that is maintained in a substantial manner as a place for preparing, cooking, and serving of complete meals, to prepare, cook, and serve complete meals on behalf of the domestic brewery or microbrewery under the domestic brewery [brewery's] or microbrewery's spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license. Requirements for complete meals shall be determined by the board in rules adopted pursuant to chapter
34.05
RCW.
(3) "Hotel," "clubs," "wine[,]" and "beer" are used in RCW 66.24.400
through
66.24.450, inclusive, with the meaning given in chapter
66.04
RCW.
[
2025 c 141 s 5
;
2011 c 195 s 2
;
2007 c 370 s 18
;
1983 c 3 s 164
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 17
;
1969 ex.s. c 112 s 1
;
1957 c 263 s 2
. Prior: 1949 c 5 s 2, part (adding new section 23-S-2 to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23S-2, part.]
NOTES:
Effective date
—
2007 c 370 ss 10-20:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.420
Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license
—
Schedule of fees
—
Location
—
Number of licenses
—
Caterer's endorsement.
(1) The spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license shall be issued in accordance with the following schedule of annual fees:
(a) The annual fee for a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license shall be graduated as follows:
Less than 50% dedicated dining area
$2,700
50% or more dedicated dining area
$2,200
Service bar only
$1,400
(b) The annual fee for the license when issued to any other spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licensee outside of incorporated cities and towns shall be prorated according to the calendar quarters, or portion thereof, during which the licensee is open for business, except in case of suspension or revocation of the license.
(c) Where the license shall be issued to any corporation, association or person operating a bona fide restaurant in an airport terminal facility providing service to transient passengers with more than one place where liquor is to be dispensed and sold, such license shall be issued upon the payment of the annual fee, which shall be a master license and shall permit such sale within and from one such place. Such license may be extended to additional places on the premises at the discretion of the board and a duplicate license may be issued for each such additional place. The holder of a master license for a restaurant in an airport terminal facility must maintain in a substantial manner at least one place on the premises for preparing, cooking, and serving of complete meals, and such food service shall be available on request in other licensed places on the premises. An additional license fee of 25 percent of the annual master license fee shall be required for such duplicate licenses.
(d) Where the license shall be issued to any corporation, association, or person operating dining places at a publicly or privately owned civic or convention center with facilities for sports, entertainment, or conventions, or a combination thereof, with more than one place where liquor is to be dispensed and sold, such license shall be issued upon the payment of the annual fee, which shall be a master license and shall permit such sale within and from one such place. Such license may be extended to additional places on the premises at the discretion of the board and a duplicate license may be issued for each such additional place. The holder of a master license for a dining place at such a publicly or privately owned civic or convention center must maintain in a substantial manner at least one place on the premises for preparing, cooking, and serving of complete meals, and food service shall be available on request in other licensed places on the premises. An additional license fee of $15 shall be required for such duplicate licenses.
(2) The board, so far as in its judgment is reasonably possible, shall confine spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses to the business districts of cities and towns and other communities, and not grant such licenses in residential districts, nor within the immediate vicinity of schools, without being limited in the administration of this subsection to any specific distance requirements.
(3) The board shall have discretion to issue spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses outside of cities and towns in the state of Washington. The purpose of this subsection is to enable the board, in its discretion, to license in areas outside of cities and towns and other communities, establishments which are operated and maintained primarily for the benefit of tourists, vacationers and travelers, and also golf and country clubs, and common carriers operating dining, club and buffet cars, or boats.
(4) The combined total number of spirits, beer, and wine nightclub licenses, and spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses issued in the state of Washington by the board, not including spirits, beer, and wine private club licenses, shall not in the aggregate at any time exceed one license for each 1,200 of population in the state, determined according to the yearly population determination developed by the office of financial management pursuant to RCW 43.62.030
.
(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (4) of this section, the board shall refuse a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to any applicant if in the opinion of the board the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses already granted for the particular locality are adequate for the reasonable needs of the community.
(6)(a) The board may issue a caterer's endorsement to this license to allow the licensee to remove the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, for use as liquor for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and, except as provided in subsection (7) of this section, place not currently licensed by the board. If the event is open to the public, it must be sponsored by a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375
. If attendance at the event is limited to members or invited guests of the sponsoring individual, society, or organization, the requirement that the sponsor must be a society or organization as defined by RCW 66.24.375
is waived. Cost of the endorsement is $525.
(b) The holder of this license with a catering endorsement shall, if requested by the board, notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any catered event. Upon request, the licensee shall provide to the board all necessary or requested information concerning the society or organization that will be holding the function at which the endorsed license will be utilized.
(c) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on the premises of another not licensed by the board so long as there is a written agreement between the licensee and the other party to provide for ongoing catering services, the agreement contains no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and the agreement is filed with the board.
(d) The holder of this license with a caterer's endorsement may, under conditions established by the board, store liquor on other premises operated by the licensee so long as the other premises are owned or controlled by a leasehold interest by that licensee. A duplicate license may be issued for each additional premises. A license fee of $30 shall be required for such duplicate licenses.
(7) Licensees under this section that hold a caterer's endorsement are allowed to use this endorsement on a domestic winery premises or on the premises of a passenger vessel and may store liquor at such premises under conditions established by the board under the following conditions:
(a) Agreements between the domestic winery or passenger vessel, as the case may be, and the retail licensee shall be in writing, contain no exclusivity clauses regarding the alcoholic beverages to be served, and be filed with the board; and
(b) The domestic winery or passenger vessel, as the case may be, and the retail licensee shall be separately contracted and compensated by the persons sponsoring the event for their respective services.
[
2025 c 343 s 33
; (2022 c 116 s 2 expired December 31, 2023);
2021 c 6 s 9
; (2009 c 507 s 9 expired July 1, 2011);
2009 c 271 s 7
. Prior:
2007 c 370 s 19
;
2007 c 370 s 8
; prior:
2006 c 101 s 3
;
2006 c 85 s 1
;
2004 c 62 s 3
;
2003 c 345 s 2
;
1998 c 126 s 6
;
1997 c 321 s 27
;
1996 c 218 s 4
;
1995 c 55 s 1
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 45
;
1979 c 87 s 1
;
1977 ex.s. c 219 s 4
;
1975 1st ex.s. c 245 s 1
;
1971 ex.s. c 208 s 2
;
1970 ex.s. c 13 s 2
; prior:
1969 ex.s. c 178 s 6
;
1969 ex.s. c 136 s 1
;
1965 ex.s. c 143 s 3
;
1949 c 5 s 3
(adding new section 23-S-3 to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23S-3.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2022 c 116 ss 2-20:
"Sections 2 through 20 of this act expire December 31, 2023." [
2022 c 116 s 21
.]
Effective date
—
2022 c 116:
"This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect April 1, 2022." [
2022 c 116 s 22
.]
Finding
—
Intent
—
2022 c 116:
"The legislature finds that operations of businesses in the hospitality industry have been significantly disrupted since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these businesses, including restaurants, hotels, theaters, caterers, and nightclubs maintain state liquor licenses in order to offer their customers beer, wine, or spirits as products or amenities as authorized under the terms of their licenses. However, many licensees' businesses were completely or partially closed for much of 2020 and continue to be closed or substantially disrupted in 2021 and 2022. Recognizing many licensees' inability to fully operate and use their license, and the financial hardships faced by many licensees, the legislature intends to provide relief to the hospitality industry by reducing certain liquor license fees in 2022 and 2023." [
2022 c 116 s 1
.]
Effective date
—
2021 c 6:
See note following RCW 66.24.140
.
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Effective date
—
2007 c 370 ss 10-20:
See note following RCW 66.04.010
.
Effective date
—
1998 c 126:
See note following RCW 66.20.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.
RCW 66.24.425
Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license
—
Restaurants not serving the general public.
(1) The board may, in its discretion, issue a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to a business which qualifies as a "restaurant" as that term is defined in RCW 66.24.410
in all respects except that the business does not serve the general public but, through membership qualification, selectively restricts admission to the business. For purposes of RCW 66.24.400
and
66.24.420, all licenses issued under this section shall be considered spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses and shall be subject to all requirements, fees, and qualifications in this title, or in rules adopted by the board, as are applicable to spirits, beer, and wine restaurant licenses generally except that no service to the general public may be required.
(2) No license shall be issued under this section to a business:
(a) Which shall not have been in continuous operation for at least one year immediately prior to the date of its application; or
(b) Which denies membership or admission to any person because of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, or the presence of any disability.
(3) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license issued under this section that allows up to 40 nonclub, member-sponsored events using club liquor. Visitors and guests may attend these events only by invitation of the sponsoring member or members. These events may not be open to the general public. The fee for the endorsement is an annual fee of $1,350. Upon the board's request, the holder of the endorsement must provide the board or the board's designee with the following information at least 72 hours before the event: The date, time, and location of the event; the name of the sponsor of the event; and a brief description of the purpose of the event.
(4) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to sell for off-premises consumption wine vinted and bottled in the state of Washington and carrying a label exclusive to the license holder selling the wine. Spirits and beer may not be sold for off-premises consumption under this section. The annual fee for the endorsement under this section is $180.
[
2025 c 343 s 34
;
2020 c 274 s 45
. Prior:
2001 c 199 s 3
;
2001 c 198 s 1
; (2009 c 507 s 10 expired July 1, 2011);
1998 c 126 s 7
;
1997 c 321 s 28
;
1982 c 85 s 3
.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Effective date
—
1998 c 126:
See note following RCW 66.20.010
.
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
RCW 66.24.450
Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine private club license
—
Qualifications
—
Fee.
(1) No club shall be entitled to a spirits, beer, and wine private club license:
(a) Unless such private club has been in continuous operation for at least one year immediately prior to the date of its application for such license;
(b) Unless the private club premises be constructed and equipped, conducted, managed, and operated to the satisfaction of the board and in accordance with this title and the regulations made thereunder;
(c) Unless the board shall have determined pursuant to any regulations made by it with respect to private clubs, that such private club is a bona fide private club; it being the intent of this section that license shall not be granted to a club which is, or has been, primarily formed or activated to obtain a license to sell liquor, but solely to a bona fide private club, where the sale of liquor is incidental to the main purposes of the spirits, beer, and wine private club, as defined in RCW 66.04.010
(8).
(2) The annual fee for a spirits, beer, and wine private club license, whether inside or outside of an incorporated city or town, is $1,080 per year.
(3) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine private club license that allows nonclub, member-sponsored events using club liquor. Visitors and guests may attend these events only by invitation of the sponsoring member or members. These events may not be open to the general public. The fee for the endorsement shall be an annual fee of $1,350. Upon the board's request, the holder of the endorsement must provide the board or the board's designee with the following information at least 72 hours prior to the event: The date, time, and location of the event; the name of the sponsor of the event; and a brief description of the purpose of the event.
(4) The board may issue an endorsement to the spirits, beer, and wine private club license that allows the holder of a spirits, beer, and wine private club license to sell bottled wine for off-premises consumption. Spirits and beer may not be sold for off-premises consumption under this section. The annual fee for the endorsement under this section is $180.
[
2025 c 343 s 35
;
2011 c 119 s 402
; (2009 c 507 s 11 expired July 1, 2011);
2009 c 373 s 2
;
2001 c 199 s 1
;
1999 c 281 s 5
. Prior:
1998 c 126 s 9
;
1998 c 114 s 1
;
1997 c 321 s 30
;
1981 1st ex.s. c 5 s 18
;
1949 c 5 s 6
;
1937 c 217 s 1
(23T) (adding new section 23-T to 1933 ex.s. c 62); Rem. Supp. 1949 s 7306-23T.]
NOTES:
Expiration date
—
2009 c 507:
See note following RCW 66.24.320
.
Effective date
—
1998 c 126:
See note following RCW 66.20.010
.
Effective date
—
1998 c 114:
"This act takes effect July 1, 1998." [
1998 c 114 s 3
.]
Effective date
—
1997 c 321:
See note following RCW 66.24.010
.
Effective date
—
1981 1st ex.s. c 5:
See RCW 66.98.100
.