Gov. Wolf signs bill to bolster outdoor entertainment at bars, restaurants

Stacy Wescoe//July 12, 2022

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf signed House Bill 1615 into law Monday, a measure that is aimed at making it easier for bars and restaurants to offer outdoor entertainment.

Now known as Act 67 of 2022, the act allows all liquor license holders to have up to 75 decibels of sound on their property during certain hours, similar to the regulations on wineries.

The move has been applauded by the Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Association.

“During the past two years as a result of COVID, the need for this change grew louder as Pennsylvanians put greater demand on outdoor activities including dining and entertainment,” said Executive Director Chuck Moran. “In the past, any sound on the property line of a bar, tavern, licensed restaurant or club could result in a citation. This essentially caused establishments to hesitate before offering outdoor dining entertainment as part of its outdoor dining experience.”

Since the law is effective immediately, now all liquor licensees in counties class 2A through class 8 are permitted up to 75 decibels on their property line from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

“This update to outdated liquor laws is fair. It certainly encourages the use of outdoor dining with a low level of sound such as acoustic music. And we’re sure it will benefit patrons, musicians, and licensed establishments,” said Moran.

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