Let’s answer the first part of this question directly: what is DABS? DABS is the Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services. This is the state agency in Utah that is responsible for regulating the sale, distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Formerly known as DABC (the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control) this agency underwent a re-branding, of sorts, to place a stronger emphasis on its commitment to service and community.
So, now the second part of the question remains. What is DABS’ specific role in Utah’s liquor laws? To answer that, let’s take a closer look at DABS’ core responsibilities to the state and its citizens.
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Retail Operation and Sales
DABS is responsible for running the state-operated liquor and wine stores in Utah. The agency oversees the sale of all alcoholic beverages except beer with less than 5% alcohol by volume. Any alcohol that falls below this threshold can be purchased in local grocery and convenience stores.
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Licensing and Permits
DABS also issues licenses and permits for any business that is involved in the alcohol industry. This includes businesses that manufacture alcoholic beverages as well as those which distribute or sell alcohol. If you operate a business that serves alcohol to patrons you must apply for a DABS license. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and pass an extensive criminal background check. Employees involved in the alcohol business must also receive training such as the Utah E.A.S.Y. alcohol training for off-premise sellers and the alcohol server course for on-premise servers.
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Enforcement of Law and Regulatory Provisions
DABS also enforces all state laws regarding the distribution, sale and consumption of alcohol. This includes provisions that call for limiting the amount of hard liquor that can be served in a single drink. This is done in order to protect patrons and the public from overserved individuals who might create issues or otherwise disturb the peace.
While on the subject of law, did you know that Utah has the strictest DUI limit in the country? Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .05 percent wins you a trip to the nearest jail cell. This law applies to both vehicles and bicycles. Be mindful of your intake and always consider a designated driver, taxi or like-minded private service such as Lyft or Uber if you even think you might have had a little too much to drink.
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Education
With great power comes great responsibility…to educate. DABS also promotes the responsible consumption of alcohol. The agency partners with other like-minded organizations to sponsor prevention programs which are designed to curtail underage drinking. This initiative is designed to bring a sense of balance and understanding when it comes to alcohol and its potentially negative effects on both mind and body. The goal here is, of course, to promote moderation while also enforcing the aforementioned liquor laws.
If you need to get your on-premises alcohol permit or alcohol server certification, American Course Academy is your one-stop shop for DABS training and certifications. As you now know, these certificates are a mandate by DABS for anyone who sells or serves alcohol at a properly licensed establishment in the state of Utah.
