On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America and be visible in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Excitement and interest are growing for the big event, and Hoosier communities and public safety agencies are planning for an influx of hundreds of thousands of visitors to the state of Indiana. In preparation for this event, the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (“ATC” or “Commission”) would like to provide applicants, permittees, and the general public with following guidance:
Temporary Floor Plan Amendments – The 2024 total solar eclipse is considered a “social event” for the purposes of temporary floor plan amendments. As such, certain retailer permittees may temporarily amend the floor plan of a licensed premises to include an area contiguous to the licensed premises that does not already have a bar to sell, dispense, or securely store alcoholic beverages. In order to submit a request for temporary floor plan amendments, complete and submit State Form 57357 (Request for Temporary Floor Plan Amendment) as soon as possible. Unless otherwise indicated, temporary floor plans for the 2024 total solar eclipse will be valid from April 8, 2024 at 7:00 am to April 9, 2024 at 3:00 a.m. Amended floor plans must still comply with the physical separation requirements for bar rooms and dining rooms or a valid exception to the general rule prohibiting minors in taverns and bar areas must apply. For more information concerning temporary floor plan amendments, please refer to the frequently asked questions (FAQs) attached.
Temporary Permits – All applicants for a temporary beer and wine permit must submit an application no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 1, 2024 (for events to be held on April 8, 2024). All temporary permit applications must be submitted online here.
Club Guest Days – Fraternal clubs wishing to host an event allowing non-members on the licensed premises on April 8, 2024 must submit a request to use a guest day under IC 7.1-3-20-8.6.
Supplemental Catering Requests – Holders of a supplemental catering permit must submit a catering authority request no later than 4:30 p.m. on April 4, 2024 (for events to be held on April 8, 2024).
Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas (DORAs) – Local municipalities wishing to utilize a DORA during the 2024 total solar eclipse should start the application process now to ensure that it is approved by the ATC prior to April 8, 2024. Local municipalities should also start securing and approving vendors for the DORA so there is plenty of time for the vendor to submit temporary beer and wine applications or supplemental catering requests to the ATC. Those wishing to participate as a vendor in a DORA must first obtain approval from the local municipality that established the DORA. The ATC cannot approve temporary beer and wine permits or supplemental catering requests in a DORA that do not include an approved vendor form.
