Governor Sisolak has recently signed SB 307 which makes various changes to NRS Chapters 369 and 597 concerning the sale of alcoholic beverages. Section 4.7 of the Bill paves the way for licensed retailers and unaffiliated third party delivery support services acting on behalf of the retailers to deliver alcoholic beverages to Nevada customers.
The Bill requires the Nevada Department of Taxation to adopt delivery regulations. The Department of Tax has not yet written or adopted delivery regulations. But, they will include (among other things):
- A requirement to obtain proof that the delivery was accepted on behalf of the consumer by a person who is at least 21 years of age.
- Restrictions regarding the areas in which such deliveries may be made.
- Provisions to encourage local Nevada governments to coordinate their ordinances to provide for more uniform implementation, supervision and enforcement.
This bill does not make any changes to delivery restrictions in local Nevada jurisdictions. However, it is likely to encourage similar changes statewide. Most Nevada local local liquor codes restrict liquor delivery only to grocery stores. Many jurisdictions expanded delivery privileges to other businesses (restaurants, liquor stores, convenience stores, etc.) on a temporary basis as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the City of Las Vegas is the only Nevada jurisdiction whose liquor code allows third parties and retailers other than grocery stores to apply for delivery licenses or permits. This recent change in Nevada state law may lead to similar changes in Clark County, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and other jurisdictions throughout Nevada.