AR SB523

Amends Arkansas Code § 3-4-109 to expand outdoor dining provisions to include bars in addition to restaurants with valid alcoholic beverage permits.

Permits restaurants and bars to expand outdoor dining with local government zoning authority approval without prior approval from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division, provided notice of expansion and floor plan changes is given to the division.

Requires division approval prior to expanding outdoor dining if the expansion increases seating capacity in a way that could result in a change in permit type.

Establishes that restaurants and bars expanding outdoor dining must comply with division rules regarding outdoor dining.

Defines "bar" as an establishment licensed by the division to sell alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption that is not a restaurant, and defines "restaurant" with specific requirements including minimum 25-person seating capacity, adequate kitchen and dining equipment, and operation of at least five days per week.