Vermont’s alcohol laws balance strict control with recent flexibilities for delivery and sales, overseen by the Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL). Home delivery expanded post-pandemic, allowing licensed retailers and restaurants to ship beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails with meals until at least July 2025, subject to age verification and labeling rules.​
Delivery Rules
Retailers need permits for direct shipment; containers must be sealed, labeled “contains alcohol—21+ signature required,” and avoid “dry” towns. Third-party services like DoorDash require compliance, with taxes paid on delivery.​
Restaurants can offer to-go alcohol with food, but no standalone booze deliveries.​
Happy Hour Limits
True “happy hours” with discounted drinks are banned to curb overconsumption; bars can’t offer two-for-one or free drinks during set periods. Discounts must apply all day or via loyalty programs.​
Sunday sales run 10 a.m.–midnight; grocery stores sell beer/wine, but spirits remain state-monopoly at agency stores.​
Key Restrictions
Open containers can’t ride in vehicle passenger areas (trunk only). Underage possession (under 21) risks fines/jail; servers need training. Local options allow towns to restrict sales.​
SOURCES
[1](https://www.touchbistro.com/blog/alcohol-delivery-covid-19/)
[2](https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/07/009/00279)
[3](http://www.alcohollaws.org/vermontalcohollaws.html)
[4](https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/07/009/00226)
[5](https://www.nabca.org/sites/default/files/assets/files/VT_One-Pager-2025.pdf)
