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

Lawrenceburg Primary Named Purple Star School

South Ripley HS had their designation renewed.

Hillforest Announces Annual “Gift to the Community” Event

The free event will be held on December 7.

Local Sports Report - November 6, 2025

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Local Sports Report - November 5, 2025

East Central hosted South Dearborn to tip off the girls basketball season.

Local Sports Report - November 4, 2025

The Girls High School Basketball Season got underway on Tuesday.

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Sara Evans - Suds In The Bucket

Jordan Foster They All Do 12:52
Travis Tritt More Than You'll Ever Know 12:49
Gabby Barrett I Hope 12:45
Jason Aldean My Kinda Party 12:39