Alcohol Laws

Effective January 1, 2026, due to changes in State of Wisconsin statutes (2023 Act 73, the "wedding barn" law), Copper Hall is classified as a No-Sale Event Venue.  Renters are NOT allowed to bring their own alcohol into any public venue and serve their guests at will.  The No-Sale permit only allows for a limited number of alcohol events per year and month across all renters.  If approved for alcohol service, renters have the following options to have alcohol at their event:

1) Bring your own beverage

• Beer and wine ONLY without charge.

• If there are 20 or more people in attendance, a person holding an operator's license must serve.

2) Hire a licensed caterer

• A renter may contract with a caterer holding Class "B" and "Class B" licenses to provide beer and wine (ONLY) at the event without charge at the event, subject to the following:

  • Neither the renter nor any guest may bring alcohol beverages to the venue.

  • Beer and wine must be served by individuals that hold an operator’s license.

  • The renter must have previously purchased the beer or wine from the caterer in a face-to face transaction at the caterer’s retail licensed premises.

3) Obtain a temporary license through the City of Oshkosh

• A renter, if qualified, may obtain temporary Class "B" and "Class B" licenses for an event at the venue to sell beer and wine (ONLY).

NOTE: No one is allowed to possess or consume distilled spirits (intoxicating liquor) per sec. 125.24(2)(b)2. Wis. Stats on the property.

** You must coordinate with Copper Hall staff if you wish to have alcohol at your event.  We must verify that your event doesn't exceed our limits and that your beverage service plan complies within the restrictions of the law.

For additional information see the Division of Alcohol Beverages Fact Sheet.  If you think a small, limited capacity venue where renters are hosting private parties should have different consideration under the new statute, contact your state senate and assembly representatives and voice your opinion.