DE SB56

Increases minimum distance requirements for new liquor licenses from 1,200 feet to ½ mile in incorporated cities/towns and from 1 mile to 3 miles in unincorporated/rural areas, measured by driving distance.

Allows applicants for off-premises or taproom licenses to obtain approval despite proximity restrictions if they demonstrate either a minimum 1% yearly population increase of individuals 21+ over 3 consecutive years or 3% increase within the past year in the surrounding area.

Exempts existing licenses, license transfers/renewals, clubs, farm wineries, breweries, microbreweries, craft distilleries, and licensees relocating within 500 feet (or within the same shopping center) from the new distance requirements.

Grandfathers licensees whose licenses were valid on December 31, 2019, allowing them to relocate without complying with new distance restrictions if the move is due to building destruction, lease loss, highway diversion, or similar circumstances beyond their control.

Effective date: January 1, 2020.