Missouri’s alcohol laws balance permissive retail sales with strict regulations on delivery and promotions like happy hours. Home delivery and to-go sales expanded during the pandemic and remain active into 2026, while happy hours face outright bans statewide.
Home Delivery Rules
Licensed retailers, including liquor stores and some restaurants, can deliver beer, wine, spirits, and mixed drinks within a 30-mile radius under House Bill 1135. Deliveries require sealed, leak-proof containers no larger than 128 ounces, ID verification for those 21+, and no service to intoxicated individuals or dry areas; third-party services need special permits.
Restaurants with to-go permits must pair alcohol with meals and post open-container notices, with sales allowed from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. daily. Out-of-state direct shipments are limited to wine (up to two cases yearly via reciprocal licenses), using approved carriers.
Happy Hour Restrictions
Missouri bans happy hours entirely, prohibiting price discounts on drinks during specific times to curb overconsumption. Bars and restaurants cannot offer two-for-one deals, volume discounts, or free drinks with purchases, though loyalty programs or daily specials at consistent prices are permitted.
Sales Hours and Licensing
All alcohol sales (on- and off-premises) run from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. every day, with no local dry zones for off-premises retail. Businesses can hold dual licenses for both by-the-drink and packaged sales, except near schools or churches.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.touchbistro.com/blog/alcohol-delivery-covid-19/)
[2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcohol_laws_of_Missouri)
[3](https://fintech.com/alcohol-regulations)
[4](https://atc.dps.mo.gov/IndustryCircular/guidelines-for-retailers-to-deliver-4-24-20.pdf)
[5](https://atc.dps.mo.gov/documents/liquor-lawbook.pdf)
