Florida § 562.51 - Retail alcoholic beverage establishments; rights as private enterprise.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 562.51 — Retail alcoholic beverage establishments; rights as private enterprise., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 562.51. Retail alcoholic beverage establishments; rights as private enterprise.
A licensed retail alcoholic beverage establishment open to the public is a private enterprise and: (1) May refuse service to any person who is objectionable or undesirable to the licensee, but such refusal of service shall not be on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, or physical handicap. (2)(a) May not refuse service to any person solely because the person is not purchasing alcoholic beverages if that person is the designated driver for one or more persons who are purchasing alcoholic beverages at the establishment. (b) This subsection does not excuse a retail alcoholic beverage establishment from complying with any applicable municipal or county ordinance regulating the presence of persons under 21 years of age on the premises of any such establishment.
Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 562.51
What does Florida Statutes § 562.51 cover?
Section 562.51 ("Retail alcoholic beverage establishments; rights as private enterprise.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Florida § 562.51?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 562.51" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Florida law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.
How does Florida § 562.51 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.