What You Need to Know Before You Book
Planning an event in Iowa with alcohol involved? Here’s what you need to know to keep things smooth, safe, and legal when working with Streb Hospitality Services, LLC.
1. No License Needed for Private, Free Events
If you’re hosting a private social event—like a wedding, birthday party, or backyard gathering—and you’re not charging for alcohol, tickets, or entry, you do not need a liquor license. You can purchase the alcohol yourself, and we can legally serve it to your guests. This is the most common setup for private bartending jobs.
2. A License Is Required If Alcohol Is Sold
If guests are paying for drinks, tickets, or even making "suggested donations" in exchange for alcohol, a license is required. This also applies if we, as bartenders, are expected to supply the alcohol. In those cases, we can help guide you through obtaining a temporary liquor license and the necessary liability insurance for the event.
3. Legal Hours for Alcohol Service
In Iowa, alcohol can be served from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Sundays. We’ll work with you to plan bar service within those legal hours—no after-hours pouring allowed.
4. Age Requirements
All guests consuming alcohol must be 21 or older. Bartenders must be at least 18 to serve. We card anyone who looks under 30 and won’t serve minors under any circumstances.
5. You Provide the Alcohol, We Handle the Rest
As the host, you're responsible for purchasing and transporting the alcohol unless we've discussed a licensed event. We’ll create a custom shopping list based on your guest count and drink menu, so you’ll know exactly what to get. Once we’re on site, we’ll handle setup, mixing, garnishes, and service.
6. Liability & Safety
Even at private events, we take safety seriously. While Iowa’s Dram Shop laws generally don’t apply to private events where alcohol isn’t sold, we carry liability insurance as a precaution. We also reserve the right to stop serving anyone who appears overly intoxicated or is underage. This protects your guests—and you as the host.
7. Venue & Local Rules
Some venues or towns may have their own restrictions (like no glassware or open container rules). Be sure to double-check with your venue about what’s allowed—we’re happy to adapt our setup to stay compliant.
8. Tip Jar Policy
Unless you request otherwise, we will include a small tip jar on the bar. Tips are always optional and appreciated, but never expected.
In Iowa, serving alcohol at a private social gathering in a private home or place that isn't commercial doesn't require a bartending license or permit. However, if the event is commercial in nature or charges admission for alcohol consumption, a license or permit may be needed, according to the Johnson County Iowa (.gov).
Do I need a liquor license or a permit for beer or wine in Johnson County?
You do need a license or a permit if you are going to:
• Sell or serve liquor at no charge for consumption on- or off-premises,
OR
• Sell beer or wine for consumption on- or off-premises,
OR
• Charge an admission fee to attend an event where you give away beer or wine for on-premises consumption.
You do not need a liquor license or a beer or wine permit if:
• You are not going to charge an admission fee to attend an event where you give away beer or wine for on-premises
consumption
Final Note:
These guidelines are based on Iowa state law and industry best practices, but they aren’t legal advice. If you’re unsure about licensing or requirements for your event, feel free to reach out or consult with the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division.
We're here to make your event fun, safe, and easy—so if you have questions, we’ve got answers!