Need something else?

You can report:

  • Alcohol for sale to-go at a restaurant or bar that is not beer, cider or mead 
  • Alcohol for sale at more than half off or the sale of unlimited drinks
  • Alcohol sale to an intoxicated person
  • A store selling alcohol to minors
  • Alcohol sale outside of approved hours

As of June 25, 2021, bars and restaurants may only sell beer, cider, and mead to-go or for delivery.  Sales of all other alcoholic beverages to-go are prohibited.

You can report a restaurant or bar selling alcohol other than beer, cider or mead to-go or for delivery.

Send your complaint, including photos, to the State Liquor Authority.

It's illegal for restaurants or bars to provide or advertise free or unlimited drinks for a single price. 

Exceptions are made for private functions not opened to the public where the service of alcohol is incidental, such as:

  • Weddings
  • Banquets
  • Receptions
  • Packages with food

If you see an "All you can drink" ad for one price, you can report that anonymously to the New York State Liquor Authority for investigation.

Online

File a complaint with the New York State Liquor Authority.

By Phone

  • Agency: New York State Liquor Authority
  • Phone Number: (518) 474-3114
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

It is illegal for restaurants or bars to offer alcohol to someone who was already drunk.

If you witnessed such a situation you can report it anonymously to the State Liquor Authority for investigation. Please be prepared to offer the name and address of the business.

Online

File a complaint with the New York State Liquor Authority.

By Phone

  • Agency: New York State Liquor Authority
  • Phone Number: (518) 474-3114
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

You can report stores selling alcohol to minors.

In New York City, the legal drinking age is 21 and older.

What Happens Next

Officers from your local police precinct will respond when they are not handling emergency situations.

Off-premises (supermarket or grocery stores) beer sales are prohibited on Sundays between 3 AM and 8 AM. Off-premises (liquor store or retailer) liquor and wine sales are prohibited between midnight and 8 AM, and until 9 AM on Sundays.

On-premises (bar or lounge) sales are prohibited between 4 AM and 8 AM, and until noon on Sundays.

You can report the sale of alcoholic beverages outside of approved hours to the State Liquor Authority.

File a complaint with the New York State Liquor Authority.

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