Alcohol

Prohibited Practices

Credit Sales (Tabs)

Tabs and credit vouchers are not legal. Licensees may extend credit only through the use of bona fide credit cards (American Express®, Discover®, MasterCard®, Visa®, etc.). Patrons may run a tab while drinking in an establishment, but licensees (their employees and agents) must ensure that the tab is fully paid before the patron leaves.

Exception: The law does not apply to sales by clubs (class A liquor licensees) to bona fide members, nor to hotels and motels (class B liquor licensees registered guests.)

Iowa Code section §123.49(2)(c)

Refilling ('Marrying') Bottles

Refilling and reusing liquor and wine bottles is unlawful. Licensees may not:

  • Refill a smaller “well” bottle from a larger bottle.
  • Refill a bottle with a product other than that designated on the label.
  • Refill a bottle bearing the Iowa identifying marker with a product imported from another state.
  • Adulterate liquor or wine by the addition of any substance.
  • Knowingly possess an original package that has been reused or adulterated.

Refilling and reusing liquor and wine bottles is a serious violation that may result in suspension or revocation of the license.

Iowa Code sections §123.49(2)(d) and (e), and §123.50(2)

Illegal or Criminal Activity

Licensees are in violation of the laws and rules governing their license if they knowingly allow illegal or criminal activity in their licensed establishments. Examples of illegal or criminal activity include, but are not limited to:

  • Gambling in violation of Iowa Code chapters 99B (games of skill or chance, raffles), 99D (pari-mutuel wagering), 99E (Iowa lottery) and 99F (excursion boat gambling).
  • Drug trafficking, pimping, panhandling, prostitution, indecent exposure, (nude dancing, etc.) and failure to cooperate with law enforcement officials.
  • Violations of alcoholic beverages and related laws and regulations and local ordinances.
  • A license may be suspended or revoked or a civil penalty may be imposed if licensees (their employees and agents) knowingly allow illegal or criminal activity on the licensed premises (establishment and designated outdoor service area, if applicable).

Iowa Code sections §123.49(2)(a) and (j), §123.50(2), and Iowa Administrative Code 185-4.7