What Time Can I Buy Alcohol In New Mexico? This is a common question, especially for LGBTQ+ visitors and residents looking to enjoy the Land of Enchantment’s vibrant nightlife and social scene. At gaymexico.net, we’re here to provide you with the information you need to navigate New Mexico’s alcohol laws, so you can have a safe and enjoyable experience.
1. Understanding Alcohol Sales Hours in New Mexico
So, what time can you buy alcohol in New Mexico? The answer is quite simple: alcohol sales are generally permitted from 7 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week. This applies to both on-premise consumption (bars, restaurants) and off-premise sales (liquor stores, grocery stores).
However, there are a few nuances to keep in mind:
- Local Ordinances: While the state sets the general framework, individual cities and counties may have stricter regulations. It’s always a good idea to check local ordinances, especially if you’re in a smaller town or rural area.
- Specific Licenses: The type of license a business holds can affect its hours of operation. For example, a bar with a full dispenser license may be open later than a grocery store selling beer and wine.
- Special Events: During special events, such as festivals or holidays, some restrictions may be temporarily lifted or modified. Keep an eye out for announcements from local authorities.
2. Recent Changes to New Mexico’s Alcohol Laws
New Mexico has seen some recent changes to its alcohol laws that are worth noting:
- Sunday Sales: Restrictions on Sunday sales have been lifted, meaning you can purchase alcohol at the same hours as any other day of the week. This is a welcome change for many residents and visitors alike.
- Server Age: Holders of dispenser, restaurant, or club licenses may employ servers 18 years or older to sell or serve alcoholic beverages in a restaurant setting where food sales are the primary source of revenue. Bartenders must still be 21 years of age or older.
- Licensed Premises Expansion: Creating a “controlled access” area outside of the licensed premises will be allowed (excluding parking lots or fueling stations) on the property of the business as long as the controlled access area is enclosed by a sufficient barrier and connected and contiguous to an indoor controlled access area.
These changes aim to modernize New Mexico’s alcohol regulations and provide more flexibility for businesses and consumers.
3. Navigating New Mexico’s LGBTQ+ Scene with Confidence
Knowing the alcohol sales hours is just one piece of the puzzle. As an LGBTQ+ traveler, you also want to be aware of the local scene and any specific considerations that might apply.
- LGBTQ+ Friendly Establishments: New Mexico has a welcoming and diverse LGBTQ+ community, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to the community. Some popular destinations include Albuquerque and Santa Fe, which offer a variety of LGBTQ+ events and nightlife options.
- Safety Tips: While New Mexico is generally a safe place for LGBTQ+ individuals, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid walking alone late at night.
- Local Resources: If you need assistance or support, there are several LGBTQ+ organizations in New Mexico that can provide resources and information. These organizations can offer guidance on everything from healthcare to legal services.
4. Common Questions About Alcohol Laws in New Mexico
Let’s address some frequently asked questions about alcohol laws in New Mexico:
4.1. Can an 18-year-old serve alcohol if the establishment has a wine grower’s license?
No. Dispenser, restaurant, and club licenses, held out to the public as a place where meals are prepared and served and the primary source of revenue is food, are the only licenses that may employ minors as servers.
4.2. For the Restaurant A license, do you have to wait a year before you can add the spirits permit?
If you already have a beer & wine license prior to 7/1/2021 then you don’t have to wait. ABC has streamlined the conversion process to make conversion easier and quicker. Additionally, an entity may apply for a restaurant B license at any time.
4.3. Can you start with a Restaurant A+ license then upgrade to a Restaurant B license if you determine it is worth the cost?
Yes.
4.4. Can a Restaurant B license have a bar?
No. Except for food counters where patrons may sit to order food and drinks, a restaurant may not have any counters dedicated primarily to the display, service, or consumption of alcoholic beverages, with incidental food service; and all areas of the licensed premises must have food service as the primary commercial purpose.
4.5. Can you have a dedicated bartender with the Restaurant A or B license?
No. Restaurant licenses are not allowed to have designated bartenders. While this is not written, it is due to the fact that they cannot have bars. If the licensee cannot have an area dedicated primarily to the display, service, or consumption of alcohol (aka a bar) they cannot have someone whose primary function is the tending of a bar.
4.6. Can an 18-year-old be a bartender or a delivery driver?
No. Both a delivery driver and a bartender must be 21 or older.
4.7. Can you deliver beer, wine, or spirits to a hotel room outside of the restaurant but in the same building?
If the hotel is not part of the licensee’s designated floorplan, then the answer is no. If the licensee has the hotel as part of the approved floorplan, then it is not considered delivery as the entire transaction takes place within the controlled access areas of the licensed premises.
4.8. Can customers picking up to-go food orders also pick up wine, beer, or mixed drinks?
No. Delivery permits do not allow for “to-go” orders of alcohol.
4.9. We have a retail liquor store and have applied for a delivery license. Are there limits to how much we can deliver to a residence?
Yes, depending on your license type. Delivery restrictions may occur due to either the type of license held or the size and location of the business. If the license does not have package sales capabilities then it is limited. Additionally, restrictions/requirements may occur if license is located in a Class A county and has a retail space greater than 10,000 square feet.
4.10. To expand our premises, do we just submit a new floor plan?
Yes. If you are updating or expanding your “licensed premise,” it must have “controlled access.” Additionally, NMAC 15.10.32.12 requires that floor plans that accurately reflect the controlled access areas of a licensee’s licensed premise be kept current by filing an application to change a floor plan within 30 days of a change, and to expand a floor plan by filing an application prior to expansion, or upon request by the director.
4.11. Can we deliver mixed drinks?
Yes. Delivery restrictions and requirements for restaurant licenses include stipulations on the amount of spirituous liquors allowed in delivered cocktails.
4.12. Are current alcohol server certificates still valid under the new laws/rules?
Yes, current server permits are valid until the indicated expiration date.
4.13. To what type of establishment does the three-drink rule apply?
Restaurant licenses (who serve spirituous liquors) cannot serve a patron more than three drinks, each containing 1.5oz of spirituous liquors, in a single visit.
4.14. What kind of record keeping do we have to maintain for deliveries?
A licensee holding an alcoholic beverage delivery permit, or a third-party delivery license, must save for a period of six months, at their licensed establishment, documentation containing specific information about the customer, delivery address, type and quantity of alcohol, and time of delivery.
4.15. How do we purchase NM spirits from a craft distiller?
The craft distiller can apply for a wholesaler’s license and sell directly to you, or you can go through a traditional distributor for NM Spirits.
5. Tips for Responsible Alcohol Consumption in New Mexico
Enjoying alcoholic beverages responsibly is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Pace Yourself: Drink slowly and avoid consuming too much alcohol in a short period.
- Eat Food: Eating food while drinking helps to slow down the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration, which can worsen the effects of alcohol.
- Know Your Limits: Be aware of your personal tolerance and avoid exceeding it.
- Never Drink and Drive: Always have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service if you plan to consume alcohol.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions related to alcohol consumption.
6. Discovering LGBTQ+ Friendly Destinations in New Mexico
New Mexico offers a variety of destinations that are particularly welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers:
- Albuquerque: As the state’s largest city, Albuquerque has a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, with several bars, clubs, and community organizations. The city also hosts an annual Pride celebration that attracts thousands of visitors.
- Santa Fe: Known for its art and culture, Santa Fe is also a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ individuals. The city has a laid-back atmosphere and several LGBTQ+ friendly businesses.
- Taos: This charming mountain town offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cultural attractions. Taos is home to a small but active LGBTQ+ community.
- Las Cruces: Located in southern New Mexico, Las Cruces is a growing city with a diverse population. The city has a developing LGBTQ+ scene and several community resources.
7. Finding LGBTQ+ Events and Resources in New Mexico
Staying connected with the local LGBTQ+ community can enhance your experience and provide valuable support. Here are some resources to explore:
- Equality New Mexico: This statewide organization advocates for LGBTQ+ equality and provides resources and support to the community.
- New Mexico Pride: This organization organizes the annual New Mexico Pride celebration in Albuquerque.
- Local LGBTQ+ Centers: Several cities in New Mexico have LGBTQ+ centers that offer a variety of programs and services.
- Online Communities: Online forums and social media groups can be a great way to connect with other LGBTQ+ individuals in New Mexico.
8. Understanding Liquor License Tax Deductions in New Mexico
For business owners in the alcohol industry, it’s important to be aware of the liquor license tax deductions available in New Mexico.
The Legislature created deductions of up to $50,000 on either personal or corporate income tax for liquor license lessors who held licenses as of June 30, 2021. The license must be a dispenser’s license, and sales of alcoholic beverages for consumption off premises must be less than fifty percent of total alcoholic beverage sales. The deductions are available through the 2025 tax year.
It also created a deduction from gross receipts of up to $50,000 a year for those who held a dispenser’s license as of June 30, 2021. The deductions are available for tax years 2022-2025.
This deduction is for up to $50,000 of alcohol receipts for the year, not $50,000 of tax reported.
9. How to Claim the Deductions
On PIT, the deduction can be taken on Line 22 of PIT-ADJ.
On CIT, the deduction can be taken on Line 17 of the CIT-1.
For GRT, the deduction code is D0-024.
If you qualify, you would report your liquor sales for the month. You could deduct the sales amount fully if it is under the $50,000 for that month until you hit the $50,000 threshold for that year.
If total liquor sales are above $50,000, you could claim the full deduction of $50,000 once, and that would max out your deduction for the year.
10. Making the Most of Your Visit to New Mexico
New Mexico offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some tips for making the most of your visit:
- Explore the Outdoors: From hiking in the mountains to exploring the desert, New Mexico has something for every outdoor enthusiast.
- Visit Historic Sites: Discover the state’s rich history by visiting ancient ruins, historic missions, and cultural landmarks.
- Immerse Yourself in the Arts: New Mexico is a hub for artists and creatives, with numerous galleries, museums, and studios to explore.
- Attend Local Events: From festivals and cultural celebrations to music concerts and art shows, there’s always something happening in New Mexico.
- Sample the Local Cuisine: New Mexico is known for its unique and flavorful cuisine, so be sure to try some local specialties.
Conclusion
Understanding the alcohol sales hours in New Mexico is essential for planning your visit and enjoying the state’s vibrant nightlife and social scene. At gaymexico.net, we’re committed to providing you with the information you need to navigate New Mexico’s laws and customs, so you can have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Remember, alcohol sales are generally permitted from 7 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, but it’s always a good idea to check local ordinances and be aware of any specific regulations that may apply. And don’t forget to drink responsibly and respect local customs.
Ready to explore the Land of Enchantment? Visit gaymexico.net today to discover LGBTQ+ friendly destinations, events, and resources in New Mexico. Let us help you plan your unforgettable adventure!
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