Utah has some unique alcohol laws

As we get ready to attend the annual Bar & Restaurant Expo (Formally “Nightclub & Bar Show)”) in March, please let your Utah Channel 3 crew know if there is anything special you want us to cover. My of our viewers are visitors to Utah (for skiing at this time of the year) and are not aware of some of the unique challenges bars and restaurants face when serving alcohol here in Utah. We are NOT California or Nevada where alcohol restrictions are far less. We will be reviewing many products we find at the Expo with a focus on technology that can help increase safety and compliance.

As of our last update in January 2022, Utah has some unique alcohol laws, including those related to measuring and serving alcoholic beverages. Here are some key points regarding Utah’s alcohol measuring laws:

1. ABV Limit: In Utah, beer sold in grocery and convenience stores is limited to 4% alcohol by volume (ABV). Stronger beer and other alcoholic beverages are sold in state-run liquor stores.
2. Measuring and Serving: Bartenders in Utah must adhere to strict guidelines when measuring and serving alcoholic beverages. They must use calibrated measuring devices such as jiggers or pour spouts to ensure accuracy in pouring drinks.
3. No Free-Pouring: Free-pouring, where bartenders pour alcohol directly from the bottle into the glass without using a measuring device, is generally not allowed in Utah. This is to ensure that alcohol servings are consistent and in compliance with state regulations.
4. Training Requirements: Bartenders and servers in Utah often undergo specific training programs to ensure they understand and comply with state alcohol laws, including those related to measuring and serving.
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Violations of Utah’s alcohol laws, including improper measuring and serving practices, can result in fines, license suspension, or other penalties for establishments and individuals.

It’s important to note that alcohol laws and regulations can change over time, so it’s a good idea to check for any updates or changes in Utah’s alcohol laws if you’re operating a business or serving alcohol in the state.

Technology has played a key roll in allowing bars, nightclubs and restaurants stay in regulatory compliance without “breaking the bank”.

We also plan on airing several segments on NON-ALCOHOLIC beverages that are marketed to adults. These are popping up all over Utah, and are especially in favor near university campuses.

As always, remember that responsible drinking does NOT have to take the fun out of your night out. Stay tuned for our review of the BACtrack S80 Professional Breathalyzer with a street price of less than $130.00.

by, Scott Kraft, Tech Producer (TechTalk Host), Sarah Barlow, Field Reporter II, April Fischer, Technology Specialist, Richard Berk, Medical Specialist.

April Fisher is a field reporter with expertise in the automotive industry. April also coverers technology used in construction when she is not out and about racing her 1997 RED Corvette and covering the automotive industry.

Scott Kraft is the Technology Producer for Utah Channel 3. He is a degreed Electrical Engineer that applies engineering testing/procedures to products that are of technical interest to those participating in sporting activities in Southern Utah.

Sarah Barlow is a senior field reporter for Utah Channel 3 with a broad focus on technology that improves safety and promotes winter and summer sports found in Southern Utah.

Richard Berk is the Executive Producer for Utah Channel 3. Richard’s field of expertise is the medical field and covers medical conventions when he is not producing Utah Channel 3 content. Richard also shares the passion of outdoor sports as do all members of BHTV.