AB-57 – Special Brewery Promotional Event Permit
What Class 5 breweries need to know about hosting promotional events and serving beer to consumers
Maryland law created a Special Brewery Promotional Event Permit that allows certain breweries to host promotional events and serve beer to consumers.
This permit is available to licensed Maryland breweries and includes specific rules for sampling, sales, and event duration.
This page explains who can use the permit and how to stay compliant.
What you need to know
- Available to Class 5 brewery license holders
- Allows limited sampling and sales at promotional events
- Events must follow strict limits on size, duration, and location
- A permit is required for each event
Who This Applies To
This guidance applies to:
- Maryland breweries holding a Class 5 Brewery License
What Changed
Maryland created a Special Brewery Promotional Event Permit for licensed breweries.
The law became effective June 1, 2008.
What the Permit Allows
With this permit, breweries may:
- Provide beer samples to consumers
- Sell beer by the glass at promotional events
Sampling and Sales Rules
During a permitted event:
- Samples may not exceed 2 fluid ounces per brand
- Sales and samples are only allowed for individuals 21 years or older
Event Limits
Promotional events must follow these limits:
- Maximum of 4 permits per year per brewery
- Each event may last no more than 3 days
- Events must be held on the licensed brewery premises
Fees
- Permit fee: $25 per event
How to Apply
To apply for a permit:
- Submit an application with the required fee
- Applications should be submitted at least 15 days before the event
Forms are available through the Comptroller’s Office.
Compliance Requirements
Breweries must:
- Follow all age restrictions
- Stay within sampling and sales limits
- Ensure events are conducted only at approved locations
Failure to follow these rules may result in enforcement action.
Need Help?
For questions about licensing, contact the ATCC: 410-260-7314 ext. 4 or [email protected]