Every state in the country has an alcohol beverage control agency that regulates the manufacturing, wholesale distribution, and retail sale of alcoholic beverages. There are no unrestricted free markets for alcohol sales in any state. In Ohio, the Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control regulates the manufacture, distribution, and retail sales of alcoholic beverages.  It also oversees the merchandising of beer, wine, mixed beverages, and spirituous liquor as outlined in Ohio Revised Code Chapters 4301. and 4303.

The Division issues new liquor licenses that are renewed annually and approves license transfers for Ohio’s liquor permit holders.  At any given time, there are approximately 27,000 private businesses that either manufacturer, distribute, or sell alcoholic beverages at retail.  Additionally, the Division also registers suppliers of alcoholic beverages not made in Ohio, licenses non-profits organizations to sell alcohol at special events, registers for sale all beer, wine, and mixed beverages (containing 21% alcohol by volume or less) products for sale in Ohio, and registers any solicitors who promote alcoholic beverages in state.

Ohio Liquor (OHLQ) is a unique public/private partnership between the Ohio Department of Commerce's  Division of Liquor Control and the JobsOhio Beverage System. OHLQ ensures the safe and fair distribution of high-proof liquor across our state and directs profits from the sale of liquor to fund economic development in Ohio. To learn more, go to Liquor Agency Operations (OHLQ).