The excise department in Gautam Budh Nagar has issued a strong warning to bars and restaurants against advertising or permitting the “Bring Your Own Booze” (BYOB) concept, clarifying that such a practice is not recognised under existing excise rules in the district.
The directions were issued by District Excise Officer Subodh Kumar during a meeting with holders of Foreign Liquor-11 (FL-11) occasional bar licences. The department took note of a growing number of establishments displaying BYOB signage as a marketing tool to attract customers, particularly in high-footfall areas and commercial hubs.
BYOB Not Recognised Under Excise Policy
Officials clarified that the UP Excise Policy 2025–26 does not allow any provision for BYOB in Gautam Budh Nagar. The DEO stated that any bar or restaurant found advertising or permitting customers to bring their own alcohol would be considered in violation of excise norms and face strict action.
“BYOB is not permitted anywhere in the district. Any establishment found promoting or allowing it will be treated as violating excise rules,” Kumar said, adding that enforcement drives would be intensified in the coming weeks.
Occasional Bar Licence Rules Explained
Under the revised excise policy, the FL-11 licence has been categorised into two distinct purposes. One category allows commercial operations by bars and restaurants, while the other applies to community or private events such as weddings and private functions.
Officials noted that several eateries were misusing the occasional bar licence and presenting BYOB as a permissible option, which is misleading and illegal under the current framework.
Liquor Pricing Violations Also Flagged
Apart from BYOB-related violations, the excise department also flagged irregularities in liquor pricing. During inspections, officials observed that some establishments were selling alcohol at or near the maximum retail price (MRP) to attract customers.
The DEO clarified that all licensed bars are required to sell liquor at 20% above the approved MRP, as mandated under excise norms. Selling alcohol at MRP, close to it, or offering discounts is illegal.
“Pricing norms are non-negotiable. Any deviation will invite penal action,” Kumar warned.
Fire Safety and Licensing Compliance
The excise department also advised FL-11 licence holders to ensure fire safety compliance. While a Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC) is not mandatory for obtaining an occasional bar licence, establishments operating bars frequently have been advised to obtain one as a precautionary safety measure.
Additionally, bars operating from malls or permanent commercial complexes were directed to shift to regular licensing. Such establishments have been asked to apply for a permanent FL-7 licence instead of continuing operations under the occasional bar category.
Strict Action Planned
The excise department has warned that failure to comply with standard operating procedures and the UP Excise Policy 2025–26 will lead to action under the Uttar Pradesh Excise Act, 1910, and related rules.
Officials said inspections will be increased across Noida to ensure compliance, sending a clear message that illegal practices such as BYOB promotions and pricing violations will not be tolerated.
