title: RCW 66.24.360

text:
(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.

catchline: Grocery store license—Fees—Restricted license—Determination of public interest—Inventory—Endorsements.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 66.24.363

text:
(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.]

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Grocery store—Beer and wine tasting endorsement.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 66.24.371

text:
(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.

catchline: Beer and/or wine specialty shop license—Fee—Samples—Restricted license—Determination of public interest—Inventory.


title: RCW 66.24.375

text:
"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.]

catchline: "Society or organization" defined for certain purposes.


title: RCW 66.24.380

text:
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.

catchline: Special occasion license—Fee—Penalty. (Effective until December 31, 2027.)


title: RCW 66.24.395

text:
(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.

catchline: Interstate common carrier's licenses—Class CCI—Fees—Scope.


title: RCW 66.24.400

text:
(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.]

catchline: 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.


title: RCW 66.24.410

text:
(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.

catchline: Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license—Terms defined.


title: RCW 66.24.420

text:
(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.

catchline: Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license—Schedule of fees—Location—Number of licenses—Caterer's endorsement.


title: RCW 66.24.425

text:
(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.

catchline: Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license—Restaurants not serving the general public.


title: RCW 66.24.450

text:
(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.

catchline: Liquor by the drink, spirits, beer, and wine private club license—Qualifications—Fee.


title: RCW 66.24.452

text:
(1) There shall be a beer and wine license to be issued to a private club for sale of beer, strong beer, and wine for on-premises consumption.
(2) Beer, strong beer, and wine sold by the licensee may be on tap or by open bottles or cans.
(3) The fee for the private club beer and wine license is $270 per year.
(4) The board may issue an endorsement to the private club beer and wine license that allows the holder of a private club beer and wine license to sell bottled wine for off-premises consumption. Spirits, strong beer, 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 36; (2009 c 507 s 12 expired July 1, 2011); 2009 c 373 s 3; 2003 c 167 s 10; 2001 c 199 s 2; 1997 c 321 s 31.]
Notes:
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.

catchline: Private club beer and wine license—Fee.


title: RCW 66.24.455

text:
Subject to approval by the board, holders of beer and/or wine restaurant, tavern, snack bar, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant, spirits, beer, and wine private club, or beer and wine private club licenses may extend their premises for the sale, service, and consumption of liquor authorized under their respective licenses to the concourse or lane areas in a bowling establishment where the concourse or lane areas are adjacent to the food preparation service facility.
[ 1998 c 126 s 10; 1997 c 321 s 32; 1994 c 201 s 2; 1974 ex.s. c 65 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—1998 c 126: See note following RCW 66.20.010.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.

catchline: Bowling establishments—Extension of premises to concourse and lane areas—Beer and/or wine restaurant, tavern, snack bar, spirits, beer, and wine restaurant, spirits, beer, and wine private club, or beer and wine private club licensees.


title: RCW 66.24.481

text:
No public place or club, or agent, servant or employee thereof, shall keep or allow to be kept, either by itself, its agent, servant or employee, or any other person, any liquor in any place maintained or conducted by such public place or club, nor shall it permit the drinking of any liquor in any such place, unless the sale of liquor in said place is authorized by virtue of a valid and subsisting license issued by the Washington *state liquor control board, or the consumption of liquor in said place is authorized by a special banquet permit issued by said board. Every person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
"Public place," for purposes of this section only, shall mean in addition to the definition set forth in RCW 66.04.010, any place to which admission is charged or in which any pecuniary gain is realized by the owner or operator of such place in selling or vending food or soft drinks.
[ 2008 c 94 s 9; 1969 ex.s. c 250 s 2; 1953 c 141 s 1 (adding a new section to chapter 66.24 RCW).]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.

catchline: Public place or club—License or permit required—Penalty.


title: RCW 66.24.495

text:
(1) There shall be a license to be designated as a nonprofit arts organization license. This shall be a special license to be issued to any nonprofit arts organization which sponsors and presents productions or performances of an artistic or cultural nature in a specific theater or other appropriate designated indoor premises approved by the board. The license shall permit the licensee to sell liquor to patrons of productions or performances for consumption on the premises at these events. The fee for the license shall be $250 per annum.
(2) For the purposes of this section, the term "nonprofit arts organization" means an organization which is organized and operated for the purpose of providing artistic or cultural exhibitions, presentations, or performances or cultural or art education programs, as defined in subsection (3) of this section, for viewing or attendance by the general public. The organization must be a not-for-profit corporation under chapter 24.03A RCW and managed by a governing board of not less than eight individuals none of whom is a paid employee of the organization or by a corporation sole under chapter 24.12 RCW. In addition, the corporation must satisfy the following conditions:
(a) No part of its income may be paid directly or indirectly to its members, stockholders, officers, directors, or trustees except in the form of services rendered by the corporation in accordance with its purposes and bylaws;
(b) Salary or compensation paid to its officers and executives must be only for actual services rendered, and at levels comparable to the salary or compensation of like positions within the state;
(c) Assets of the corporation must be irrevocably dedicated to the activities for which the license is granted and, on the liquidation, dissolution, or abandonment by the corporation, may not inure directly or indirectly to the benefit of any member or individual except a nonprofit organization, association, or corporation;
(d) The corporation must be duly licensed or certified when licensing or certification is required by law or regulation;
(e) The proceeds derived from sales of liquor, except for reasonable operating costs, must be used in furtherance of the purposes of the organization;
(f) Services must be available regardless of race, color, national origin, or ancestry; and
(g) The board shall have access to its books in order to determine whether the corporation is entitled to a license.
(3) The term "artistic or cultural exhibitions, presentations, or performances or cultural or art education programs" includes and is limited to:
(a) An exhibition or presentation of works of art or objects of cultural or historical significance, such as those commonly displayed in art or history museums;
(b) A musical or dramatic performance or series of performances; or
(c) An educational seminar or program, or series of such programs, offered by the organization to the general public on an artistic, cultural, or historical subject.
[ 2025 c 343 s 37; 2023 c 470 s 1013; (2022 c 116 s 15 expired December 31, 2023). Prior: 2021 c 176 s 5234; 2021 c 6 s 10; 1997 c 321 s 33; 1981 c 142 s 1.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2023 c 470: See note following RCW 10.99.030.
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 176: See note following RCW 24.03A.005.
Effective date—2021 c 6: See note following RCW 66.24.140.
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.

catchline: Nonprofit arts organization license—Fee.


title: RCW 66.24.520

text:
There shall be a grower's license to sell wine or spirits made from grapes or other agricultural products owned at the time of vinification or distillation by the licensee in bulk to holders of domestic wineries', distillers', or manufacturers' licenses or for export. The wine or spirits shall be made upon the premises of a domestic winery or craft distillery licensee and is referred to in this section as grower's wine or grower's spirits. A grower's license authorizes the agricultural product grower to contract for the manufacturing of wine or spirits from the grower's own agricultural product, store wine or spirits in bulk made from agricultural products produced by the holder of this license, and to sell wine or spirits in bulk made from the grower's own agricultural products to a winery or distillery in the state of Washington or to export in bulk for sale out-of-state. The annual fee for a grower's license shall be $75. For the purpose of chapter 66.28 RCW, a grower licensee shall be deemed a manufacturer.
[ 2025 c 343 s 38; 2010 c 290 s 4; 1986 c 214 s 1.]

catchline: Grower's license—Fee.


title: RCW 66.24.530

text:
(1) There shall be a license to be designated as a class S license to qualified duty free exporters authorizing such exporters to sell beer and wine to vessels for consumption outside the state of Washington.
(2) To qualify for a license under subsection (1) of this section, the exporter shall have:
(a) An importer's basic permit issued by the United States bureau of alcohol, tobacco, and firearms and a customs house license in conjunction with a common carriers bond;
(b) A customs bonded warehouse, or be able to operate from a foreign trade zone; and
(c) A notarized signed statement from the purchaser stating that the product is for consumption outside the state of Washington.
(3) The license for qualified duty free exporters shall authorize the duty free exporter to purchase from a brewery, winery, beer wholesaler, wine wholesaler, beer importer, or wine importer licensed by the state of Washington.
(4) Beer and/or wine sold and delivered in this state to duty free exporters for use under this section shall be considered exported from the state.
(5) The fee for this license shall be $150 per annum.
[ 2025 c 343 s 39; 1987 c 386 s 1.]

catchline: Duty free exporter's license—Class S—Fee.


title: RCW 66.24.540

text:
(1) There is a retailer's license to be designated as a motel license. The motel license may be issued to a motel regardless of whether it holds any other class of license under this title. No license may be issued to a motel offering rooms to its guests on an hourly basis. The license authorizes the licensee to:
(a) Sell, at retail, in locked honor bars, spirits in individual bottles not to exceed 50 milliliters, beer in individual cans or bottles not to exceed 12 ounces, and wine in individual bottles not to exceed 187 milliliters, to registered guests of the motel for consumption in guest rooms.
(i) Each honor bar must also contain snack foods. No more than one-half of the guest rooms may have honor bars.
(ii) All spirits to be sold under the license must be purchased from a spirits retailer or a spirits distributor licensee of the board.
(iii) The licensee must require proof of age from the guest renting a guest room and requesting the use of an honor bar. The guest must also execute an affidavit verifying that no one under 21 years of age has access to the spirits, beer, and wine in the honor bar.
(b) Provide without additional charge, to overnight guests of the motel, spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified regular date, time, and place as may be fixed by the board. Self-service by attendees is prohibited. All spirits, beer, and wine service must be done by an alcohol server as defined in RCW 66.20.300 and comply with RCW 66.20.310.
(2) The annual fee for a motel license is $750.
(3) For the purposes of this section, "motel" means a transient accommodation licensed under chapter 70.62 RCW.
[ 2025 c 343 s 40; (2022 c 116 s 16 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 11; 2012 c 2 s 114 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 1999 c 129 s 1; 1997 c 321 s 34; 1993 c 511 s 1.]
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.
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.

catchline: Motel license—Fee.


title: RCW 66.24.550

text:
There shall be a beer and wine retailer's license to be designated as a beer and wine gift delivery license to solicit, take orders for, sell, and deliver beer and/or wine in bottles and original packages to persons other than the person placing the order. A beer and wine gift delivery license may be issued only to a business solely engaged in the sale or sale and delivery of gifts at retail which holds no other class of license under this title or to a person in the business of selling flowers or floral arrangements at retail. No minimum beer and/or wine inventory requirement shall apply to holders of beer and wine gift delivery licenses. The fee for this license is $112.50 per year. Delivery of beer and/or wine under a beer and wine gift delivery license shall be made in accordance with all applicable provisions of this title and the rules of the board, and no beer and/or wine so delivered shall be opened on any premises licensed under this title. A beer and wine gift delivery license does not authorize door-to-door solicitation of gift wine delivery orders. Deliveries of beer and/or wine under a beer and wine gift delivery license shall be made only in conjunction with gifts or flowers.
[ 2025 c 343 s 41; 1997 c 321 s 35; 1989 c 149 s 1; 1986 c 40 s 1; 1982 c 85 s 10.]
Notes:
Effective date—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.

catchline: Beer and wine gift delivery license—Fee—Limitations.


title: RCW 66.24.570

text:
(1) There is a license for sports entertainment facilities to be designated as a sports entertainment facility license to sell beer, wine, and spirits at retail, for consumption upon the premises only, the license to be issued to the entity providing food and beverage service at a sports entertainment facility as defined in this section. The cost of the license is $3,750 per annum.
(2) For purposes of this section, a sports entertainment facility includes a publicly or privately owned arena, coliseum, stadium, or facility where sporting events are presented for a price of admission. The facility does not have to be exclusively used for sporting events.
(3) The board may impose reasonable requirements upon a licensee under this section, such as requirements for the availability of food and victuals including but not limited to hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, or other snack food. The board may also restrict the type of events at a sports entertainment facility at which beer, wine, and spirits may be served. When imposing conditions for a licensee, the board must consider the seating accommodations, eating facilities, and circulation patterns in such a facility, and other amenities available at a sports entertainment facility.
(4)(a) The board may issue a caterer's endorsement to the license under this section to allow the licensee to remove from the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, for use as liquor for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and 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 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.
(5) The board may issue an endorsement to the beer, wine, and spirits sports entertainment facility license that allows the holder of a beer, wine, and spirits sports entertainment facility 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.
(6)(a) A licensee and an affiliated business may enter into arrangements with a manufacturer, importer, or distributor for brand advertising at the sports entertainment facility or promotion of events held at the sports entertainment facility, with a capacity of five thousand people or more. The financial arrangements providing for the brand advertising or promotion of events shall not be used as an inducement to purchase the products of the manufacturer, importer, or distributor entering into the arrangement nor shall it result in the exclusion of brands or products of other companies.
(b) The arrangements allowed under this subsection (6) are an exception to arrangements prohibited under RCW 66.28.305. The board shall monitor the impacts of these arrangements. The board may conduct audits of the licensee and the affiliated business to determine compliance with this subsection (6). Audits may include but are not limited to product selection at the facility; purchase patterns of the licensee; contracts with the liquor manufacturer, importer, or distributor; and the amount allocated or used for liquor advertising by the licensee, affiliated business, manufacturer, importer, or distributor under the arrangements.
(c) The board shall report to the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 30, 2008, and biennially thereafter, on the impacts of arrangements allowed between sports entertainment licensees and liquor manufacturers, importers, and distributors for brand advertising and promotion of events at the facility.
[ 2025 c 343 s 42; (2022 c 116 s 17 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 12; 2011 c 119 s 205; 2007 c 369 s 2; 2003 c 345 s 3; 2001 c 199 s 5; 1997 c 321 s 36; 1996 c 218 s 1.]
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—1997 c 321: See note following RCW 66.24.010.

catchline: Sports entertainment facility license—Fee—Caterer's endorsement—Financial arrangements—Reporting.


title: RCW 66.24.580

text:
Notes:
Reviser's note: RCW 66.24.580 was amended by 2025 c 343 s 43 without reference to its repeal by 2025 c 167 s 5. It has been decodified for publication purposes under RCW 1.12.025.

catchline: Public house license—Fees—Limitations.


title: RCW 66.24.590

text:
(1) There is a retailer's license to be designated as a hotel license. No license may be issued to a hotel offering rooms to its guests on an hourly basis. Food service provided for room service, banquets or conferences, or restaurant operation under this license must meet the requirements of rules adopted by the board.
(2) The hotel license authorizes the licensee to:
(a) Sell spirituous liquor, beer, and wine, by the individual glass, at retail, for consumption on the premises, including mixed drinks and cocktails compounded and mixed on the premises;
(b) Sell, at retail, from locked honor bars, in individual units, spirits not to exceed 50 milliliters, beer in individual units not to exceed 12 ounces, and wine in individual bottles not to exceed 385 milliliters, to registered guests of the hotel for consumption in guest rooms. The licensee must require proof of age from the guest renting a guest room and requesting the use of an honor bar. The guest must also execute an affidavit verifying that no one under 21 years of age will have access to the spirits, beer, and wine in the honor bar;
(c) Provide without additional charge, to overnight guests, spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified regular date, time, and place as may be fixed by the board. Self-service by attendees is prohibited;
(d) Sell beer, including strong beer, wine, or spirits, in the manufacturer's sealed container or by the individual drink to guests through room service, or through service to occupants of private residential units which are part of the buildings or complex of buildings that include the hotel;
(e) Sell beer, including strong beer, spirits, or wine, in the manufacturer's sealed container at retail sales locations within the hotel premises;
(f) Sell beer to a purchaser in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap in the restaurant area by the licensee at the time of sale;
(g) Sell for on or off-premises consumption, including through room service and service to occupants of private residential units managed by the hotel, wine carrying a label exclusive to the hotel license holder;
(h) Place in guest rooms at check-in, a complimentary bottle of liquor in a manufacturer-sealed container, and make a reference to this service in promotional material.
(3) If all or any facilities for alcoholic beverage service and the preparation, cooking, and serving of food are operated under contract or joint venture agreement, the operator may hold a license separate from the license held by the operator of the hotel. Food and beverage inventory used in separate licensed operations at the hotel may not be shared and must be separately owned and stored by the separate licensees.
(4) All spirits to be sold under this license must be purchased from a spirits retailer or spirits distributor licensee of the board.
(5) All on-premises alcoholic beverage service must be done by an alcohol server as defined in RCW 66.20.300 and must comply with RCW 66.20.310.
(6)(a) The hotel license allows the licensee to remove from the liquor stocks at the licensed premises, liquor for sale and service at event locations at a specified date and 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.
(b) The holder of this license must, if requested by the board, notify the board or its designee of the date, time, place, and location of any 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) Licensees may cater events on a domestic winery, brewery, or distillery premises.
(7) The holder of this license or its manager may furnish spirits, beer, or wine to the licensee's employees who are 21 years of age or older free of charge as may be required for use in connection with instruction on spirits, beer, and wine. The instruction may include the history, nature, values, and characteristics of spirits, beer, or wine, the use of wine lists, and the methods of presenting, serving, storing, and handling spirits, beer, or wine. The licensee must use the liquor it obtains under its license for the sampling as part of the instruction. The instruction must be given on the premises of the licensee.
(8) Minors may be allowed in all areas of the hotel where liquor may be consumed; however, the consumption must be incidental to the primary use of the area. These areas include, but are not limited to, tennis courts, hotel lobbies, and swimming pool areas. If an area is not a mixed-use area, and is primarily used for alcohol service, the area must be designated and restricted to access by persons of lawful age to purchase liquor.
(9) The annual fee for this license is $2,500.
(10) As used in this section, "hotel," "spirits," "beer," and "wine" have the meanings defined in RCW 66.24.410 and 66.04.010.
[ 2025 c 343 s 44; (2022 c 116 s 3 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 14; 2012 c 2 s 115 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011); 2011 c 119 s 403; 2008 c 41 s 11; 2007 c 370 s 11.]
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.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.
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.

catchline: Hotel license—Fee—Limitations.


title: RCW 66.24.600

text:
(1) There shall be a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license to sell spirituous liquor by the drink, beer, and wine at retail, for consumption on the licensed premises.
(2) The license may be issued only to a person whose business includes the sale and service of alcohol to the person's customers, has food sales and service incidental to the sale and service of alcohol, and has primary business hours between 9:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m.
(3) Minors may be allowed on the licensed premises but only in areas where alcohol is not served or consumed.
(4) The annual fee for this license is $2,500. The fee for the license shall be reviewed from time to time and set at such a level sufficient to defray the cost of licensing and enforcing this licensing program. The fee shall be fixed by rule adopted by the board in accordance with the provisions of the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
(5) Local governments may petition the board to request that further restrictions be imposed on a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license in the interest of public safety. Examples of further restrictions a local government may request are: No minors allowed on the entire premises, submitting a security plan, or signing a good neighbor agreement with the local government.
(6) The total number of spirits, beer, and wine nightclub licenses are subject to the requirements of RCW 66.24.420(4). However, the board shall refuse a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license to any applicant if the board determines that the spirits, beer, and wine nightclub licenses already granted for the particular locality are adequate for the reasonable needs of the community.
(7) The board may adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2025 c 343 s 45; (2022 c 116 s 4 expired December 31, 2023); 2021 c 6 s 15; 2009 c 271 s 1.]
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.

catchline: Nightclub license.


title: RCW 66.24.610

text:
There shall be a license to allow a VIP airport lounge operator to sell or otherwise provide spirits, wine, and beer solely for consumption on the premises of a VIP airport lounge. The license described in this section allows the VIP airport lounge operator to purchase spirits from the board, and to purchase beer and wine at retail outlets, or from the manufacturer or a distributor. No licensee may serve liquor from a bar where patrons may sit to be served, but may only serve liquor from a service bar, as approved by the board. The annual fee for this license shall be $2,500.
[ 2025 c 343 s 46; 2011 c 325 s 1.]

catchline: VIP airport lounge operator.


title: RCW 66.24.620

text:
(1) The holder of a spirits distributor license or spirits retail license issued under this title may commence sale of spirits upon issuance thereof, but in no event earlier than March 1, 2012, for distributors, or June 1, 2012, for retailers. The board must complete application processing by those dates of all complete applications for spirits licenses on file with the board on or before sixty days from December 8, 2011.
(2) The board must effect orderly closure of all state liquor stores no later than June 1, 2012, and must thereafter refrain from purchase, sale, or distribution of liquor, except for asset sales authorized by chapter 2, Laws of 2012.
(3) The board must devote sufficient resources to planning and preparation for sale of all assets of state liquor stores and distribution centers, and all other assets of the state over which the board has power of disposition, including without limitation goodwill and location value associated with state liquor stores, with the objective of depleting all inventory of liquor by May 31, 2012, and closing all other asset sales no later than June 1, 2013. The board, in furtherance of this subsection, may sell liquor to spirits licensees.
(4)(a) Disposition of any state liquor store or distribution center assets remaining after June 1, 2013, must be managed by the department of revenue.
(b) The board must obtain the maximum reasonable value for all asset sales made under this section.
(c) The board must sell by auction open to the public the right at each state-owned store location of a spirits retail licensee to operate a liquor store upon the premises. Such right must be freely alienable and subject to all state and local zoning and land use requirements applicable to the property. Acquisition of the operating rights must be a precondition to, but does not establish eligibility for, a spirits retail license at the location of a state store and does not confer any privilege conferred by a spirits retail license. Holding the rights does not require the holder of the right to operate a liquor-licensed business or apply for a liquor license.
(5) All sales proceeds under this section, net of direct sales expenses and other transition costs authorized by this section, must be deposited into the liquor revolving fund.
(6)(a) The board must complete the orderly transition from the current state-controlled system to the private licensee system of spirits retailing and distribution as required under this chapter by June 1, 2012.
(b) The transition must include, without limitation, a provision for applying operating and asset sale revenues of the board to just and reasonable measures to avert harm to interests of tribes, military buyers, and nonemployee liquor store operators under then existing contracts for supply by the board of distilled spirits, taking into account present value of issuance of a spirits retail license to the holder of such interest. The provision may extend beyond the time for completion of transition to a spirits licensee system.
(c) Purchases by the federal government from any licensee of the board of spirits for resale through commissaries at military installations are exempt from sales tax based on selling price levied by RCW 82.08.150.
[ 2012 c 2 s 102 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
Notes:
Finding—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): "(1) The people of the state of Washington, in enacting this initiative measure, find that the state government monopoly on liquor distribution and liquor stores in Washington and the state government regulations that arbitrarily restrict the wholesale distribution and pricing of wine are outdated, inefficient, and costly to local taxpayers, consumers, distributors, and retailers. Therefore, the people wish to privatize and modernize both wholesale distribution and retail sales of liquor and remove outdated restrictions on the wholesale distribution of wine by enacting this initiative.
(2) This initiative will:
(a) Privatize and modernize wholesale distribution and retail sales of liquor in Washington state in a manner that will reduce state government costs and provide increased funding for state and local government services, while continuing to strictly regulate the distribution and sale of liquor;
(b) Get the state government out of the commercial business of distributing, selling, and promoting the sale of liquor, allowing the state to focus on the more appropriate government role of enforcing liquor laws and protecting public health and safety concerning all alcoholic beverages;
(c) Authorize the state to auction off its existing state liquor distribution and state liquor store facilities and equipment;
(d) Allow a private distributor of alcohol to get a license to distribute liquor if that distributor meets the requirements set by the Washington state liquor control board and is approved for a license by the board and create provisions to promote investments by private distributors;
(e) Require private distributors who get licenses to distribute liquor to pay ten percent of their gross spirits revenues to the state during the first two years and five percent of their gross spirits revenues to the state after the first two years;
(f) Allow for a limited number of retail stores to sell liquor if they meet public safety requirements set by this initiative and the liquor control board;
(g) Require that a retail store must have ten thousand square feet or more of fully enclosed retail space within a single structure in order to get a license to sell liquor, with limited exceptions;
(h) Require a retail store to demonstrate to state regulators that it can effectively prevent sales of alcohol to minors in order to get a license to sell liquor;
(i) Ensure that local communities have input before a liquor license can be issued to a local retailer or distributor and maintain all local zoning requirements and authority related to the location of liquor stores;
(j) Require private retailers who get licenses to sell liquor to pay seventeen percent of their gross spirits revenues to the state;
(k) Maintain the current distribution of liquor revenues to local governments and dedicate a portion of the new revenues raised from liquor license fees to increase funding for local public safety programs, including police, fire, and emergency services in communities throughout the state;
(l) Make the standard fines and license suspension penalties for selling liquor to minors twice as strong as the existing fines and penalties for selling beer or wine to minors;
(m) Make requirements for training and supervision of employees selling spirits at retail more stringent than what is now required for sales of beer and wine;
(n) Update the current law on wine distribution to allow wine distributors and wineries to give volume discounts on the wholesale price of wine to retail stores and restaurants; and
(o) Allow retailers and restaurants to distribute wine to their own stores from a central warehouse." [ 2012 c 2 s 101 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
Application—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): "This act does not increase any tax, create any new tax, or eliminate any tax. Section 106 of this act applies to spirits licensees upon December 8, 2011, but all taxes presently imposed by RCW 82.08.150 on sales of spirits by or on behalf of the liquor control board continue to apply so long as the liquor control board makes any such sales." [ 2012 c 2 s 301 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
Rules—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): "The department of revenue must develop rules and procedures to address claims that this act unconstitutionally impairs any contract with the state and to provide a means for reasonable compensation of claims it finds valid, funded first from revenues based on spirits licensing and sale under this act." [ 2012 c 2 s 303 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): "This act takes effect upon approval by the voters. Section 216, subsections (1) and (2) of this act take effect if Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 5942 is enacted by the legislature in 2011 and the bill, or any portion of it, becomes law. Section 216, subsection (3) of this act takes effect if any act or part of an act relating to the warehousing and distribution of liquor, including the lease of the state's liquor warehousing and distribution facilities, is adopted subsequent to May 25, 2011, in any 2011 special session." [ 2012 c 2 s 305 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]

catchline: Sale of spirits by a holder of a spirits distributor or spirits retail license—State liquor store closure.


title: RCW 66.24.630

text:
(1) There is a spirits retail license to: Sell spirits in original containers to consumers for consumption off the licensed premises and to permit holders; 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 export spirits.
(2) For the purposes of this title, a spirits retail license is a retail license, and a sale by a spirits retailer is a retail sale only if not for resale. Nothing in this title authorizes sales by on-sale licensees to other retail licensees. The board must establish by rule an obligation of on-sale spirits retailers to:
(a) Maintain a schedule by stock-keeping unit of all their purchases of spirits from spirits retail licensees, including combination spirits, beer, and wine licensees holding a license issued pursuant to RCW 66.24.035, indicating the identity of the seller and the quantities purchased; and
(b) Provide, not more frequently than quarterly, a report for each scheduled item containing the identity of the purchasing on-premises licensee and the quantities of that scheduled item purchased since any preceding report to:
(i) A distributor authorized by the distiller to distribute a scheduled item in the on-sale licensee's geographic area; or
(ii) A distiller acting as distributor of the scheduled item in the area.
(3)(a) Except as otherwise provided in (c) of this subsection, the board may issue spirits retail licenses only 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 systems for inventory management, employee training, employee supervision, and physical security of the product substantially as effective as those of stores currently operated by the board with respect to preventing sales to or pilferage by underage or inebriated persons.
(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 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 retail licenses.
(c) The board may not deny a spirits retail license to an otherwise qualified contract liquor store at its contract location or to the holder of former state liquor store operating rights sold at auction under RCW 66.24.620 on the grounds of location, nature, or size of the premises to be licensed. The board may not deny a spirits retail license to applicants that are not contract liquor stores or operating rights holders on the grounds of the size of the premises to be licensed, if such applicant is otherwise qualified and the board determines that:
(i) There is no spirits retail license holder in the trade area that the applicant proposes to serve;
(ii) The applicant meets, or upon licensure will meet, the operational requirements established by the board by rule; and
(iii) The licensee has not committed more than one public safety violation within the three years preceding application.
(d) A retailer authorized to sell spirits for consumption on or off the licensed premises may accept delivery of spirits at its licensed premises, at another licensed premises as designated by the retailer, or at one or more warehouse facilities registered with the board, which facilities may also warehouse and distribute nonliquor items, and from which the retailer may deliver to its own licensed premises and, pursuant to sales permitted under subsection (1) of this section:
(i) To other retailer premises licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the licensed premises;
(ii) To other registered facilities; or
(iii) To lawful purchasers outside the state. The facilities may be registered and utilized by associations, cooperatives, or comparable groups of retailers, including at least one retailer licensed to sell spirits.
(e) For purposes of negotiating volume discounts, a group of individual retailers authorized to sell spirits for consumption off the licensed premises may accept delivery of spirits at their individual licensed premises or at any one of the individual licensee's premises, or at a warehouse facility registered with the board.
(4)(a) Except as otherwise provided in RCW 66.24.632, section 2, chapter 48, Laws of 2021, or in (b) of this subsection, each spirits retail licensee must pay to the board, for deposit into the liquor revolving fund, a license issuance fee equivalent to 17 percent of all spirits sales revenues under the license, exclusive of taxes collected by the licensee and of sales of items on which a license fee payable under this section has otherwise been incurred. The board must establish rules setting forth the timing of such payments and reporting of sales dollar volume by the licensee, with payments required quarterly in arrears. The first payment is due October 1, 2012.
(b) This subsection (4) does not apply to craft distilleries for sales of spirits of the craft distillery's own production.
(5) In addition to the payment required under subsection (4) of this section, each licensee must pay an annual license renewal fee of $550. The board must periodically review and adjust the renewal fee as may be required to maintain it as comparable to annual license renewal fees for licenses to sell beer and wine not for consumption on the licensed premises. If required by law at the time, any increase of the annual renewal fee becomes effective only upon ratification by the legislature.
(6) As a condition to receiving and renewing a spirits retail license the licensee must provide training as prescribed by the board by rule for individuals who sell spirits or who manage others who sell spirits regarding compliance with laws and regulations regarding sale of spirits, including without limitation the prohibitions against sale of spirits to individuals who are underage or visibly intoxicated. The training must be provided before the individual first engages in the sale of spirits and must be renewed at least every five years. The licensee must maintain records documenting the nature and frequency of the training provided. An employee training program is presumptively sufficient if it incorporates a "responsible vendor program" adopted by the board.
(7) 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 spirits retail licensees.
(8)(a) The board must adopt regulations concerning the adoption and administration of a compliance training program for spirits retail licensees, to be known as a "responsible vendor program," to reduce underage drinking, encourage licensees to adopt specific best practices to prevent sales to minors, and provide licensees with an incentive to give their employees ongoing training in responsible alcohol sales and service.
(b) Licensees who join the responsible vendor program under this section and maintain all of the program's requirements are not subject to the doubling of penalties provided in this section for a single violation in any period of 12 calendar months.
(c) The responsible vendor program must be free, voluntary, and self-monitoring.
(d) To participate in the responsible vendor program, licensees must submit an application form to the board. If the application establishes that the licensee meets the qualifications to join the program, the board must send the licensee a membership certificate.
(e) A licensee participating in the responsible vendor program must at a minimum:
(i) Provide ongoing training to employees;
(ii) Accept only certain forms of identification for alcohol sales;
(iii) Adopt policies on alcohol sales and checking identification;
(iv) Post specific signs in the business; and
(v) Keep records verifying compliance with the program's requirements.
(f)(i) A spirits retail licensee that also holds a grocery store license under RCW 66.24.360 or a beer and/or wine specialty shop license under RCW 66.24.371 may, upon board approval and pursuant to board rules, transition to a combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035.
(ii) An applicant that would qualify for a spirits retail license under this section and that qualifies for a combination spirits, beer, and wine license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035 may apply for a license pursuant to RCW 66.24.035 instead of applying for a spirits retail license under this section.
[ 2025 c 343 s 47; 2025 c 95 s 4; 2021 c 48 s 5; 2020 c 238 s 9; 2017 c 96 s 4; 2015 c 186 s 1; 2012 2nd sp.s. c 6 s 401; 2012 c 2 s 103 (Initiative Measure No. 1183, approved November 8, 2011).]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2025 c 95 s 4 and by 2025 c 343 s 47, 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).
Findings—Intent—Expiration of temporary authorization—Customer identification—Food requirements—Effective date—2021 c 48: See notes following RCW 66.08.071.
Tax preference performance statement and expiration exemption—2021 c 48: See note following RCW 82.08.150.
Existing rights, liabilities, or obligations—Effective dates—Contingent effective dates—2012 2nd sp.s. c 6: See notes following RCW 82.04.29005.
Finding—Application—Rules—Effective date—Contingent effective date—2012 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 1183): See notes following RCW 66.24.620.

catchline: Spirits retail license.


title: RCW 66.24.632

text:
(1) Beginning June 30, 2013, the license issuance fee under RCW 66.24.630(4) does not apply to a spirits retail licensee or combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee that was a contract liquor store manager with respect to sales of spirits in original containers from the location of its spirits retail licensed premises to retailers licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the premises for resale at their licensed premises.
(2) Beginning June 30, 2013, the license issuance fee under RCW 66.24.630(4) does not apply to a spirits retail licensee or combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee that was a former state store auction buyer, with respect to sales of spirits in original containers from the location of its spirits retail licensed premises to retailers licensed to sell spirits for consumption on the premises for resale at their licensed premises.
(3) The exemptions created in this section attach to any successor, by purchase or otherwise, to the spirits retail license or combination beer and wine license, except that an exemption does not attach to any such successor that owns, directly or indirectly, any interest in a spirits retail license that is not derived directly from a former contract liquor store manager or a former state store auction buyer.
[ 2017 c 96 s 6; 2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2013 2nd sp.s. c 12: "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 [June 30, 2013]." [ 2013 2nd sp.s. c 12 s 4.]

catchline: Spirits retail licensee—Combination spirits, beer, and wine licensee—License issuance fee exemption.