Code of Vermont Rules Agency 26 - DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR CONTROL
Overview of CVR Agency 26 — Vermont Department of Liquor Control (DLC)
The Department of Liquor Control (DLC) is the state agency responsible for regulating the sale, distribution, and manufacture of alcoholic beverages in Vermont. Agency 26 rules provide the legal framework for licensing, enforcement, and operations of liquor-related businesses in the state.
The rules are designed to:
Promote public safety and responsible alcohol consumption.
Ensure compliance with state liquor laws.
Regulate licenses, permits, and reporting requirements for individuals and businesses.
Establish penalties and procedures for violations.
Major Areas Covered in Agency 26 Rules
1) Licensing and Permits
Types of licenses:
Retail licenses (on-premises, off-premises)
Wholesale/distributor licenses
Manufacturer licenses (brewery, distillery, winery)
Special event permits
Eligibility: Applicants must meet age, residency, criminal background, and financial standards.
Application process: Includes submission of forms, fees, and background checks.
Renewals: Licenses must be renewed periodically; failure to renew may result in suspension.
2) Operational Rules for Licensees
Hours of sale: Restrictions on when alcohol may be sold or served.
Serving restrictions: Rules on underage service, over-service, and intoxicated patrons.
Recordkeeping: Licensees must maintain sales logs, invoices, and inventory records.
Signage: Certain notices (e.g., age restrictions, state regulations) must be displayed.
3) Pricing and Distribution
Pricing rules: Maximum or minimum pricing requirements for certain products may apply.
Purchase and resale: Licensed retailers can only purchase from authorized wholesalers or state stores.
Delivery and shipping: Regulations for in-state and out-of-state delivery of alcohol.
4) Inspections and Compliance
DLC inspections: Officials may inspect premises, records, and inventory to ensure compliance.
Testing: DLC may conduct alcohol content verification or safety testing.
Reporting violations: Licensees must report thefts, losses, or law enforcement actions.
5) Enforcement and Penalties
Violations: Can include sales to minors, unlicensed sales, improper advertising, or failure to follow operational rules.
Penalties: Warnings, fines, license suspension, or revocation depending on severity.
Hearing process: Licensees have the right to a hearing before enforcement action is finalized.
6) Special Events and Temporary Licenses
Event permits: Regulations for fairs, festivals, or private events where alcohol is sold or served.
Application: Requires submission in advance, fees, and approval by DLC.
Conditions: Limits on hours, serving practices, and number of attendees.
7) Education and Training
Responsible Beverage Service (RBS): Licensees and servers may be required to complete state-approved training programs.
Employee compliance: Employees must follow state rules to avoid penalties for the licensee.
8) Records, Reporting, and Fees
Financial reporting: Wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers must submit regular sales and inventory reports.
Fees and taxes: License fees, excise taxes, and fines are collected and managed according to DLC rules.
Audits: DLC may audit records to ensure compliance with taxes, fees, and sales regulations.
Key Takeaways
Agency 26 regulates all aspects of alcohol in Vermont, from manufacturing to retail sale.
Licensing is central: Eligibility, application, renewal, and compliance are strictly governed.
Operational rules ensure public safety, prevent underage sales, and enforce responsible service.
Enforcement mechanisms include inspections, fines, suspensions, and hearings.
Temporary and special event permits are regulated to balance business flexibility with public safety.
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