KEG REGISTRATION

New York State has finally adopted a keg registration law that takes effect on November 22, 2003.  Under this law, all beer kegs (a beer keg is defined as---any vessel containing four or more gallons of beer) must have an identification label or tag attached.  Section 2 of Chapter 192 specifies the authorized materials that may be used for such a tag and the manner by which it must be affixed.  The name shall include the name and address of the retrial licensee, the name of the purchaser, and an individual identification number assigned by the retailer for not less than ninety days from the date of return.  

Prior to the retail sale of beer in a keg for off premise consumption, the retail licensee shall have the purchaser sign a statement prepared by the state liquor authority (SLA) under penalty of perjury, the accuracy of the purchaser’s name and that the purchaser will not allow consumption by persons under the age of 21.  The retailer shall collect a $75.00 registration deposit on each keg of beer.  This deposit shall be in addition to the price of the beer, taxes and any other deposit required by the retailer. The retailer will then record: 

Upon return of the keg with the identification label or tag, the deposit shall be returned to the purchaser and the label or tag shall be removed.  The deposit is forfeited if the keg is returned without the tag or label affixed.  Furthermore, the deposit is forfeited on any keg not returned within 30 days of purchase.  

The only person authorized to remove a label or tag are the retailer, a licensed wholesaler, a peace officer or an agent of the state liquor authority. Possession of a keg without the label or tag shall be subject to a fine of $250.00 - $450.00.