Producing, Selling, and Buying Alcohol Products

LCB has legal authority for licensing and regulating the production, distribution, and sales of alcoholic products in Washington State. Policies governing these activities are a mix of state laws and LCB regulations.

Alcohol cannot be produced or sold without a license, except for home brewing and home winemaking for personal consumption. There are limitations, however. These can be found in a Breweries FAQ and a Wineries FAQ on the LCB website.

Federal law strictly prohibits individuals from producing distilled spirits – like whiskey, vodka, and other hard alcohol – at home. Producing distilled spirits at any place other than a distilled spirits plant that is qualified by the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau can lead to Federal charges.

Washington’s legal drinking age is 21 years old. It is illegal for anyone under 21 to buy or consume alcohol. There is an exception, however, for a minor to drink alcohol with the permission of and while they are with their parent or guardian.