ALBANY, New York (WWNY) – Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted a policy change with actor Kevin Bacon that eliminates dancing restrictions for bars and restaurants in New York, according to a state announcement.
The New York State Liquor Authority no longer requires applicants to disclose whether dancing will be permitted by patrons, and no longer considers questions about patron dancing when reviewing on-premises license applications, according to the announcement.
The change was announced as part of Hochul’s 2026 State of the State and builds on her broader efforts to support live performances, arts and entertainment across New York, according to the announcement.
“New Yorkers have been working so hard, punching their cards, and now at our great bars and restaurants across the state, you can finally cut loose,” Hochul said. “We’ve eliminated outdated restrictions on dancing in bars and restaurants to uplift our local businesses and give New Yorkers more opportunities to take advantage of all the great entertainment opportunities we have to offer.”
Key changes under the policy
According to the announcement, the policy includes the following changes:
The State Liquor Authority no longer considers responses related to patron dancing when evaluating applications for on-premises liquor licenses.Applicants are no longer required to disclose whether patron dancing will be permitted on the authority’s on-premises license application, method of operation change application, municipal notice form, public interest questionnaire, and other related materials.Applicants may omit or leave blank any such questions without impacting the evaluation of their application.The policy applies to all new applications, including those currently under review that have not yet been approved.Liquor authority chair responds
New York State Liquor Authority Chair Lily M. Fan said Hochul has made clear that New York should support thriving small businesses and a hospitality industry that reflects the way people live and gather today.
“By removing this outdated question, we are making the licensing process simpler and more sensible while keeping the SLA focused where it belongs — on public safety, quality of life, and responsible operation,” Fan said. “New York’s restaurants, bars, and venues bring people together and fill our communities with energy. Dancing is good for the soul — so let’s cut loose and celebrate!”
Licensees that currently have restrictions related to patron dancing may apply to modify their method of operation if they wish to allow dancing at their establishment, according to the announcement.
The State Liquor Authority continues to review each application based on public convenience and advantage and the overall method of operation, while enforcing laws and regulations related to noise, disorderly conduct and public safety, according to the announcement. Businesses must continue to comply with all applicable municipal laws, regulations, or zoning requirements related to dancing, entertainment, and use of space.
Additional guidance on the policy is available on the State Liquor Authority’s website.
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