COLUMBUS, Ohio — As fans across Ohio prepare for Super Bowl LX this Sunday, the Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU) is reminding liquor permit holders and the public to prioritize safety and responsible alcohol service during the weekend’s festivities.
OIU agents will operate statewide throughout the weekend to monitor liquor permit premises and ensure compliance with Ohio’s liquor laws. Officials said their focus includes preventing the sale of alcohol to underage individuals, stopping over-service of patrons, and verifying that permit holders adhere to their authorized privileges.
“We want everyone to enjoy the game and the social gatherings that come with it, but our priority is ensuring that those celebrations don’t turn into tragedies,” said OIU Executive Director Jamie Patton. “Liquor permit holders have a responsibility to their patrons and their communities to serve alcohol legally and safely. Our agents will be active across Ohio to ensure these laws are followed and to hold violators accountable.”
Patton also said, “Whether you are hosting a party at your home or running a sports bar, the goal is the same: get everyone home safely. Plan for a sober ride, watch out for your friends, and if you’re serving, ensure your staff is trained and knowledgeable by utilizing the ASK program.”
The OIU reminded permit holders to verify their specific Sunday sale privileges. A D-6 permit is required to sell intoxicating liquor—including wine, prepackaged low-proof mixed beverages, and high-proof spirits—on Sundays. Beer sales require authorization based on local option election results. OIU noted that Ohio law does not allow temporary changes to sales privileges for holidays or special events.
During Super Bowl weekend in 2025, which ran from Friday, Feb. 7, through Monday, Feb. 10, OIU agents made 34 total arrests and issued 16 administrative citations against liquor permit holders, including 10 for operating without a permit to sell liquor on Sundays.
Agents will specifically monitor for responsible service, administrative compliance, and criminal activity, including weapons, violence, or other offenses related to liquor establishments.
The OIU encourages the public to report suspected violations of alcohol, tobacco, and food assistance program laws online at oiu.ohio.gov or by contacting the Central Office at (614) 644-2415. For immediate emergencies, authorities advise calling 911.