What Time Can You Buy Beer in South Carolina? Full Guide

Written By Lydia Martin
March 18, 2024

Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Lydia Martin

Although South Carolina is far from the top of having the most craft breweries in the country, I’m still amazed at the wide variety of beers available there.

Between free tastings in different stores and sipping a cold brew while grocery shopping, I asked employees and owners some crucial questions.

But first, what time can you buy beer in South Carolina?

Table of Contents

When Can You Buy Beer In South Carolina?

In South Carolina, many counties can sell beer anytime in off-premise locations like convenience and grocery stores, from Monday through Saturday.

“With more breweries opening in South Carolina, that’s more money that we’re keeping here and less we’re having to bring in from Georgia, North Carolina, or Florida.” – Tony Brown, Sales Director

Sundays are subject to the local law. The earliest they sell alcohol in South Carolina for on-site drinking would be at 9 a.m., and the latest is until 2 a.m.

South Carolina Beer Laws

Despite having a lower alcohol content than other alcoholic drinks, there are still laws you need to follow if you want to drink beer in South Carolina.

South Carolina has no dry counties. The state senate has already addressed a bill to allow curbside pick-up or delivery of alcoholic beverages, like beer.

Places That Sell Beer & Their Sale Hours

Grocery Stores

On-Premise

Does the idea of grocery shopping while sipping a refreshing cold beer excite you? Well, it’s a thrilling experience for me in Lexington, South Carolina. The beer sales hours are between 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Off-Premise

But if you plan to consume alcohol at home, some areas are allowed to sell beer for 24 hours.

Also Read:

Gas Stations

On-Premise

If you can’t make it to grocery stores, a gas station (with a convenience store) can sell beer from 9 a.m., but with varying closing times. Some gas stations are open 24/7, while others would close as early as 7 p.m.

Off-Premise

Some gas stations are allowed 24/7 beer selling for off-premise consumption. But remember that it is illegal to consume alcohol while inside your car.

You may be arrested for a DUI case where the first offense can already land you in jail [1].

Bars & Restaurants

On-Premise

Bars and restaurants may vary in counties and cities, but the latest they can serve beer for on-premises consumption is at 2 a.m. Monday through Friday.

They may stop selling a little earlier on Saturday, and they may be closed on Sunday.

Off-Premise

Bars and restaurants in South Carolina would usually serve alcohol for on-premises consumption.

As a response to the COVID pandemic, South Carolina allowed restaurants to deliver alcohol to consumers temporarily but as a part of a meal. The delivery can only be done during the operating hours.

Package & Liquor Stores

On-Premise

Liquor or package stores may not usually allow on-premises alcohol consumption, but they are open between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Off-Premise

We’ve visited liquor stores with different entrances for their beer section, and they may stay open beyond the usual 9 p.m. restriction.

However, it is illegal for businesses to sell alcoholic beverages to someone below the minimum drinking age of 21 [2].

Breweries & Taprooms

On-Premise

From Monday to Saturday, breweries and taprooms sell alcoholic drinks between 10 a.m. and 2 a.m., depending on the local law.

Off-Premise

If you have growlers available, you can take it and refill it at breweries. The operating hours may vary, but they are usually available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.

Read: What Time Can You Buy Beer In New York?

What Counties Can You Buy Beer On Sunday In South Carolina?

South Carolina’s counties like Georgetown, Charleston, York, Horry, Darlington, Beaufort, and the unincorporated areas of Richland allowed Sunday sales of beer.

“Exploring the burgeoning craft beer scene in South Carolina is a treat, and breweries and taprooms offer unique experiences.” – Liquor Laboratory

Cities in Lancaster and Lexington with referendums can also have Sunday sales of alcohol for on and off-premise consumption.

FAQs Related to What time can you buy beer in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, what time is it appropriate to buy beer?

In South Carolina, beer can be purchased from retail outlets such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and liquor stores from 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 a.m., Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, beer sales begin at 10:00 a.m.

Are there any restrictions on the days of the week for buying beer in South Carolina?

Beer sales are permitted every day of the week in South Carolina. However, on Sundays, beer sales begin at a later time compared to other days.

Can you buy beer from bars or restaurants at any time in South Carolina?

Yes, bars and restaurants in South Carolina can sell beer for on-premises consumption during their regular operating hours, which may vary depending on local regulations.

Are there any age restrictions for purchasing beer in South Carolina?

Yes, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase beer in South Carolina. Proper identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, is typically required to verify age.

Can you purchase beer from gas stations in South Carolina?

Yes, beer is commonly sold at gas stations and convenience stores in South Carolina. These establishments are subject to the same regulations regarding hours of sale as other retail outlets.

In Conclusion

While South Carolina has more relaxed beer laws and no dry counties, it’s still illegal for someone below the minimum drinking age of 21 to drink alcohol.

If you like traveling like me, being a responsible driver and drinker is a must. South Carolina has strict open container laws, and if you’re caught driving with a 0.15% BAC level, you will not only end up with a license suspension.

The first offense may cause up to 30 days imprisonment, while the second offense can last up to one year.

References: