2026 Liquor-Related Legislative Changes

The past legislative session brought changes for liquor licensees in Washington. Here are some details on those changes.

ESHB 2476

Theaters with 200 seats are eligible for spirits, beer, and wine license due to the change in law this year. Previously the law limited it to theaters with 120 seats or less. The law also made small changes to the alcohol control plan requirements. LCB is in the process of updating **WAC 314–02–087 to reflect this change. You can find more information on our [Current Rulemaking Activity](https://lcb.wa.gov/laws/current-rulemaking-activity)** webpage.

HB 1526

Updates to the Snack Bar license now allow for wine by the glass to be served at snack bars. Businesses with a focus other than food/alcohol that took on a different license type to qualify for wine sales may request a downgrade in their license type if this now meets their business model better.

2SHB 1701

Licensees are now allowed to lease locations and/or their kitchens to another licensee or business. Agency rules are in process and anticipated to be completed later this year. Shared premises must remain distinct and separate with each licensee still maintaining ownership and control over their individual facilities. To ensure compliance with federal rules, the new law outlined that leases may not contain agreements for profit or revenue sharing, require lessees to serve specific products, or in any other way violate tied-house laws.

To learn about all of the LCB impacted bills during the 2026 legislative session please visit **Legislative Fact Sheets**.