Home Beer Making

In 1979, Jimmy Carter signed into law permiting the manufacture of beer at home. It was allowed when prohibition was repealed in the early 30′s, but the law was vague on allowing the manufacture at home, so it was clarified. This law allows the manufacture of 100 gallons of wine or beer for a single person and 200 for a married couple. The law also allows the sharing of your home brew with friends and family, but you cannot sell what you make.

The United States government left it to the individual states to regulate home brewing. Most states embrace the Federal law, but some have set additional limits on the home production of beer. Here are some of the states that limit the production of home beer.

Alabama – The home brewing of beer and wine is not allowed in Alabama. However you can buy home brewing equipment in stores in Alabama which implies the law is not strictly enforced.

Utah – Utah will allow you to brew beer, but you need to get a state license.

Idaho – This state allows the production of home beer if you use native materials.  I do not know what native materials are.  Does in mean Idaho materials or United States material.

These are just some of the state laws.  As you can see the laws  vary from state to state.  And they can have significnat differences.

Now if you want to brew your own beer or wine, check your local state laws to ensure it is legal. Chances are your state will allow home brewing in conformance with Federal law. A simple search of the Internet will help you find the laws in your state about home brewing

If your state does allow home brewing, good luck with your new hobby and invite me over for a cold one.