What is it and FAQs
*This article ONLY pertains to private clubs in North Carolina.
I stumbled upon this helpful “Frequently Asked Questions” pamphlet that the NC ABC Commission wrote. Click here to read more FAQs. Underlined portions are added for emphasis.
The link to the original PDF is below.
A private club is an establishment that is organized and operated solely for a social and recreational purpose and is not open to the general public. A private club is not open to the general public; only members of the organization and their bona fide guests are able to attend. See NCGS 18B-1000(5).
Q: We are opening a new private club, what permits can we obtain?
Private clubs are eligible for:
- On-Premise Malt Beverage;
- On-Premise Fortified Wine;
- On-Premise Unfortified Wine;
- Brown-Bagging Permit;
- Special Occasion Permits; and
- Mixed Beverage Permit.
Q: Can an employee sign the patron in?
No, an employee who is also a member of the private club cannot admit a patron as his or her guest while the employee is on duty. See Rule 2S.0234(c).
Q: Why does NC have private clubs?
A public establishment, such as a restaurant, can serve liquor if the food sales exceed 30% of total receipts. If the establishment’s food sales do not exceed 30% or the venue does not serve food at all, then the business is a private club. The business/private club is a members-only club with membership cards and dues. Breweries are allowed to have tasting rooms without serving food under the ABC’s On-Premise Malt Beverage Permit.
Private Club Rules
- New members must submit a written membership application, and the business must keep it on file as long as the person is a member.
- A membership roster with all of the members’ names and addresses in alphabetical order must be kept on the premise at all times.
- Proof of membership through a membership card must be issued to the member.
- Management and employees cannot solicit members to sponsor non-members who arrive at the door.
- House guests are not allowed.
*read the original PDF Here
Contact us!
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to email me at john@beerlawcenter.com or call 919-335-5291.
Be sure to check out Beer Law Center and Matheson Law Office for all things NC legal.
Contact the NC ABC Commission
400 East Tryon Road
Raleigh, NC 27610
919-779-0700
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