Alcohol At Indian Weddings: Legal Permissions You Must Know (State-wise Guide)

In 2026, serving alcohol at an Indian wedding remains a highly regulated activity. Because "Alcohol" is a State Subject under the Indian Constitution, laws vary drastically across borders. Hosting an event without the correct "Occasional License" can lead to heavy fines, the sealing of the venue, and even criminal charges for the host.

This unsobered guide provides the most current legal framework for serving alcohol at weddings in India as of early 2026.

The Universal "One-Day" Permit

Regardless of the state, any wedding held in a commercial venue (hotel, banquet hall, or farmhouse) requires a temporary license. Even if you are not "selling" the alcohol to guests, the act of "serving and possession" beyond private limits requires legal cover.

General Compliance Rules for 2026:

• Source of Purchase: Liquor must be bought from an authorized retail vendor within the same state where the event is held. Invoices must be kept on-site for inspection.
• Dry Days: No license is valid on National Holidays (Jan 26, Aug 15, Oct 2) or state-specific dry days (e.g., Election dates).
• Inter-State Transport: Carrying liquor from one state to another (e.g., buying in Gurgaon to serve in Delhi) is a non-bailable offense in most jurisdictions.

State-Wise Legal Requirements (2026 Update)

Delhi: The L-38 and P-10 Licenses

Delhi has moved toward a more streamlined policy for 2026.

• L-38 License: Most registered banquet halls, farmhouses, and motels now hold an annual L-38 license. If your venue has this, you do not need a separate P-10 permit.
• P-10 License: Required if you are hosting at a private residence or an unlicensed open ground.
• Cost: Approximately INR 5,000 for small functions; INR 15,000 for large venues like farmhouses.
• Legal Age: 25 years remains the enforcement age for hard liquor in Delhi as of 2026.

Maharashtra: The FL-IV-A License

Maharashtra remains one of the strictest states regarding individual consumption.

• Event Permit (FL-IV-A): This is mandatory for any wedding serving alcohol.
• Cost: Fees range from INR 10,000 to INR 15,000 based on the location and guest count.
• The "Personal Permit": Technically, every guest needs an individual permit. While rarely checked at weddings, the host must ensure the venue has the bulk event permit to avoid a raid.
• Legal Age: 25 years (Hard Liquor) / 21 years (Beer & Wine).

Uttar Pradesh: Form FL-11

UP has digitized its excise process via the Nivesh Mitra portal.

• Category-Based Fees:
• • INR 11,000 for gatherings of up to 100 people.
  • INR 16,500 for gatherings exceeding 100 people.
• Strict Rule: Liquor must be purchased only from shops within the same district as the venue.
• Legal Age: 21 years.

Haryana: L-12A License

Known for destination weddings in Manesar and Gurgaon, Haryana has a relatively simple process.

• Cost: Approximately INR 5,000 – INR 10,000 per day.
• Legal Age: Recently lowered to 21 years to align with neighboring states.

Karnataka: CL-5 (Occasional License)

Karnataka is strict about the timing of the bar (usually must close by 11:30 PM or 12:00 AM depending on the specific permit).

• Cost: Calculated based on the number of guests; generally starts around INR 12,000.
• Legal Age: Enforced at 21 years.

The "Dry States" (Total Prohibition)

In the following states, it is strictly illegal to serve alcohol at weddings. No permits are issued for social events.

1. Gujarat: Only visitors with a "Tourist Permit" can consume in private; wedding bars are prohibited.
2. Bihar: Comprehensive ban; possession at a wedding can lead to immediate arrest and 5-10 years of imprisonment.
3. Nagaland & Mizoram: Regulated by local prohibition acts.
4. Lakshadweep: Alcohol is only permitted on the island of Bangaram; all other islands are dry.

How To Secure Your Permission

To stay 100% compliant in 2026, follow this workflow:

Summing Up

In 2026, the Indian Excise Department has become highly tech-savvy. Most states now use QR-code-based permits that officials can scan to verify authenticity instantly. To ensure your wedding goes off without a hitch, always treat the "Alcohol License" as a core part of your wedding checklist, alongside the venue and catering.