Jul 27, 2026 - News
Salt Lake City's first liquor license
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Utah is famous for its stringent alcohol rules — and it's had a long time to practice.
Flashback: Salt Lake City's first ordinance requiring licensure for alcohol sales was drafted 173 years ago this month.
- This is Old News, where we check for ring stains under the bartop coasters of Utah's past.
By the numbers: In 1853, the city authorized licensing fees up to $200.
- That's almost $8,700 in today's money.
The bottom line: As the Utahns of 1852 might tell you: Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow your favorite tavern might not have $200.