An unlicensed social function is an event where the guests attend free of charge. The host must provide the beer, wine, or liquor. The host may not pay someone else to provide the beer, wine or liquor. They may pay someone for bartending services only.
The host of the event must purchase the beer, wine, or liquor from a licensed retailer. The host must bring in and remove all beer, wine, and liquor from the event. A bartender, caterer or event hall may not provide the alcohol.
If all above qualifications are met a license is not required.
A license would be required and a sale is considered to take place if:
- there is a per drink charge,
- an admissions fee is charged to enter a place or event where these beverages are provided,
- a donation is accepted with respect to the event where these beverages are provided,
- tickets are sold (in person or online)with respect to the event where these beverages are provided,
- such beverages are provided as part of a meal for which money, direct or indirect, is accepted or required, or
- any money is accepted or required with respect to the event where these beverages are provided.
In any situation where a bartender, caterer, or event hall or other business provides the alcohol or charges a fee, they would be required to have a license.
EXAMPLE:
A wedding where the wedding party provides the beer, wine or liquor to the guests free of charge. The wedding party must purchase the beer, wine or liquor from a SC licensed retailer (grocery store, party shop, liquor store etc.). They bring in and remove the beer, wine, or liquor at the end of the event. This is an unlicensed social function and no license is required.
If the wedding party pays for someone else to provide the beer, wine or liquor it is no longer an unlicensed social function. A sale is taking place at this point between the wedding party and the person supplying the beer, wine, or liquor. A license will be required.