Change in Law Allows Minors in Restaurant Bar Areas With Some Restrictions

The new law goes in effect July 1.

Shutterstock photo.

INDIANAPOLIS – A longstanding Indiana law will soon be changing to expand family dining space in Hoosier restaurants.

According to the Indiana Alcohol & Tobacco Commission, a new law effective July 1 will allow minors in restaurant bar areas while still carrying some restrictions.

The new law will allow families to dine with their minor children under age 18 in a bar area – but for the sole purpose of consuming food.

Under the law, minor children may not be seated at the bar top, and the establishment must have a retail alcohol permit to allow family dining in a bar area.

Bars and taverns that allow smoking may not allow any minors on the premises at any time.

“The law is still restrictive in that the minor child must be in the company of a parent, guardian or family member who is 21 years of age or older, seated at a table or booth, and the minor is there for dining only,” said Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commissioner Jessica Allen.

The previous law prohibited minors under 18 years of age from dining in the bar area of a restaurant.

More from Local News

Events

Ind. Department of Education Releases Guidance for Schools Considering Four-day Week

Currently, one school in the state operates on a four-day school week

Local Chambers Help Expand Chamber Care Health Plan Access for Small Businesses

ChamberCare Partner Network Brings Trusted, Close-to-Home Support to Employers Seeking Stable, Competitive Employee Health Benefits

Registration Open for Whiskey City 5K

The event happens September 5 in Lawrenceburg.

2026 HS Football Broadcast Schedule Release

The action starts on Friday, August 21

Hoosier State Relays Creates Charitable Giving Foundation

Over the years, local student athletes have competed at Indiana’s most prestigious Indoor Track & Field Competition

On Air

Dylan Scott My Girl 21:23
Sweethearts of the Rodeo Midnight Girl/Sunset Town 21:20
Luke Combs Back in the Saddle 21:16
Eric Church Love Your Love The Most 21:12