Kentucky’s alcohol laws balance strict regulations on sales, delivery, and promotions with allowances for modern conveniences like home delivery, while “dry” territories and local variations add complexity. Happy hours face oversight to prevent excessive drinking specials.​
Home Delivery Rules
Licensed retailers can deliver sealed alcoholic beverages tied to a prepared meal, using their own vehicles, employees, or contractors aged 21+. Deliveries prohibit bulk sales, dry areas, minors, or intoxicated recipients, with tamper-evident packaging required.​
Happy Hour Regulations
Happy hours and drink specials fall under the Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), with rules varying by city or county to curb overconsumption promotions. Local ordinances often limit pricing tactics like “two-for-one” deals during peak hours.​
Key Restrictions
- Dry territories: No sales or deliveries allowed, though consumers bear liability for direct-to-consumer shipments.​
- Sunday and closed times: Retail premises follow set hours, with urban counties able to extend Sunday sales via local option.​
- Minors and public consumption: Possession or purchase under 21 is illegal statewide, including in vehicles or public places, with fines and jail possible.
SOURCES
[1](https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=50705)
[2](https://www.stateregstoday.com/health/alcohol/happy-hour-and-drink-specials-regulations-in-kentucky)
[3](https://huberthomaslaw.com/is-jaywalking-illegal-in-new-orleans/)
[4](https://www.touchbistro.com/blog/alcohol-delivery-covid-19/)
[5](https://www.foodhandlersguide.com/state-requirements/alcohol-regulations-laws-in-kentucky/)
