Licensing staff briefs committee on state’s Act 73 changes for event venues; city to notify operators before 2026 deadline

Licensing Division staff told the Licenses Committee on June 10 that state law changes under 2023 Act 73 will require privately owned event venues — often called “wedding barns” or rental event halls — to carry either a limited state no‑sale event permit or a municipal Class B tavern license beginning Jan. 1, 2026.

Jim Cooney, Licensing Division manager, briefed the committee (file 250310) on the high points of Act 73, which broadens the definition of “public place” to include venues that hold their spaces out for rent for events and social gatherings. Under the new law, privately owned venues that hold themselves out for rent can either:

- Apply for a state “no‑sale event” permit (commonly called a wedding barn/no‑sale event permit) that allows beer and wine at up to six one‑day events per calendar year and requires Class D bartender service when attendance exceeds 19; or - Apply locally for a municipal Class B tavern license, which would be reviewed under the city’s hearing process and allow the full range of spirits and on‑site sales but includes annual review and local public notification.

Cooney said the Department of…