On September 29, 2015 voters approved the sale of alcohol by the drink in certain restaurants. Restaurants that seat at least 50 and that derive at least 70 percent of their gross receipts from food are allowed to sell alcohol. Limited alcohol sales by the glass were also approved in 2012 in the East Berea Precinct at qualified historic sites. Alcohol sales are permitted Monday through Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. and on Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Note that a special license must be obtained for Sunday sales.

In order for qualifying restaurants to serve alcohol, they must first obtained a city alcohol beverage control license prior to obtaining the state license. Both applications are available for download by following the links below. Sign offs by the county health department, codes department and fire department are required to obtain a city ABC license.

The City of Berea also imposes a 6% regulatory fee on the sale of alcoholic beverages. Regulatory fees are to be submitted quarterly. The Quarterly Alcohol Beverage Regulatory Report can be downloaded below.

All individuals engaged in the sale or serving of alcoholic beverages to complete a city approved alcoholic beverage server training program. Training is available through the state ABC office.

The City of Berea is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of our citizens. In an effort ensure the strict enforcement of alcoholic beverage regulations, we encourage citizens to report any violations of such regulations by completing a complaint form, a link to which is below.

Please review the ABC ordinances referenced below for additional information. Questions should be addressed to Jason Hays who serves as the ABC Administrator for the City of Berea, at 212 Chestnut Street, Berea, KY 40403, (859) 986-8528, jhays@bereaky.gov