New York maintains a strict three-tier system for alcohol sales—producers, wholesalers, retailers—under the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Law, complicating home delivery and happy hour promotions.
Home Delivery Rules
Direct-to-consumer shipping expanded in 2024 for New York craft distilleries, cideries, and meaderies, allowing up to 36 cases annually per customer with ID verification and adult signature required upon delivery. “Drinks to go” from licensed eateries were extended through 2030, but third-party delivery often needs special permits, and interstate shipments require reciprocity.
Happy Hour Restrictions
Happy hour specials ended statewide in 2017 via the ABC Law amendment, banning time-based discounts, “two-for-one” deals, or free drinks to curb overconsumption, though non-time-limited promotions like daily specials persist.
Other Key Regulations
- Outdoor alcohol service became permanent in 2025, including across bike lanes with municipal approval.
- Pending bills may allow restaurants to buy limited alcohol from liquor stores for shortages.
- Sales end at 4 a.m. for bars, 2 a.m. Sundays; no sales on certain holidays like Christmas.
SOURCES
[1](https://sla.ny.gov/news/new-york-state-liquor-authority-announces-expansion-options-businesses-liquor-licenses-enacted)
[2](https://www.foster.com/newsroom-alerts-new-direct-to-consumer-law-permits-shipments-of-distilled-spirits-cider-and-mead-to-new-yorkers)
[3](https://www.touchbistro.com/blog/alcohol-delivery-covid-19/)
[4](https://www.woh.com/news/3337/BOOZE-BY-MAIL-HOCHUL-LEGALIZES-DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER-SHIPPING-FOR-MOST-NEW-YORK-PRODUCERS/)
[5](https://www.gtlaw.com/en/insights/2025/6/2025-new-york-legislative-session-3-alcohol-law-bills-await-governors-action)
