Responsible Beverage Service

Practices for On-Sale Establishments

  • Ensure that all employees participate in a responsible beverage service-training program appropriate to their position and setting (i.e. BASIC, TIPS, or a formal in-house program.)


  • Develop written policies describing accepted beverage service procedures particularly regarding age identification and prohibition alcoholic beverage service to intoxicated persons. Policy statements should be signed by each employee and kept on file.


  • Require that patrons present valid identification upon request, confirming that the I.D.'s are that of the presenters.


  • Promote recognition of a standard drink size and drink equivalency through serving policies and practices (i.e. 12 oz. domestic beer = 4 oz. table wine = 1.25 oz. 80 proof distilled spirits.)


  • When possible, provide foods that slow the rate of intoxication and encourage their consumption.


  • Promote non-alcohol and low alcohol beverage alternatives wherever alcoholic beverages are sold or served.


  • Avoid promotions that encourage over-consumption of alcohol as a focus of activity.


  • Promote alternative transportation programs.


  • Make available information or referral assistance to employees whose work performance may be impaired by an alcohol or drug problem.


  • Indicate support for the community covenant to other servers of alcoholic beverages in Lincoln-Lancaster County.