The Florida Alcohol Under 21 Poster informs patrons and employees that it is unlawful for anyone (including parents) to sell, give or serve alcoholic beverage to a person under 21 years of age, and cites the relevant section of the law.
Under Florida law, it is illegal to sell, give, or serve alcohol to a person (including an employee) under the legal drinking age, or to allow them to consume alcohol on the licensed premises. A first violation is a misdemeanor in the second degree punishable by up to 60 days imprisonment or a fine of $500. A second or subsequent violation is a misdemeanor in the first degree, punishable by up to 1 year or a fine of up to $1,000. Conviction under state beverage laws may also result in suspension or revocation of license.
Posting Requirement
To qualify as a responsible vendor, persons licensed to sell alcoholic beverages are required to post signs on the vendor’s premises informing customers of the vendor’s policy against serving alcoholic beverages to underaged persons and informing customers that the purchase of alcoholic beverages by an underaged person or the illegal use of or trafficking in controlled substances will result in ejection from the premises and prosecution. (F.S. 561.705(9))
Participation in the Responsible Vendor Program is voluntary. However, qualified vendors receive consideration such as:
- The license of a responsible vendor may not be suspended or revoked due to an employee’s illegal sale or service of alcoholic beverage to an underage person, unless the vendor knew of or participated in the violation.
- Qualification as a responsible vendor is considered a mitigating factor in the issuance of administrative penalties.
- Qualified vendors may receive a reduction in liability insurance premiums.
The Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco provides the Florida Alcohol Under 21 Poster to provide information on the legal drinking age and the prohibition on providing an underage person with alcohol.