Noida: The excise department has warned bars and restaurants against advertising or permitting “bring your own booze” (BYOB), stating that the concept was not recognised under the rules in the district.District excise officer (DEO) Subodh Kumar issued the directions during a meeting with Foreign Liquor-11 (occasional bar) licence holders after officials flagged a rise in shops and restaurants displaying BYOB signage and selling liquor at or close to the maximum retail price (MRP) to attract customers.Under the UP Excise Policy 2025-26, the occasional bar licence has been split into separate categories — one for commercial operations by bars and restaurants, and another for community events such as weddings and private parties.Typically, BYOB refers to arrangements where hosts or restaurants do not serve alcohol and guests bring their own wine, liquor or beer. The term is often used on party invitations or by eateries with limited licences. Officials, however, said several establishments were openly displaying BYOB signage as a marketing tool. “There is no provision for BYOB anywhere in Gautam Budh Nagar. Any bar or restaurant found advertising or permitting it will be treated as a violation of excise norms,” Kumar told , clarifiying that the revised excise rules, however, allowed commercial operations under the occasional bar licence.The excise department also flagged violations related to liquor pricing, with officials observing that some establishments were serving alcohol at or close to the maximum retail price (MRP). Kumar clarified that, as per excise norms, all licensed bars are mandated to sell liquor at 20% above the approved MRP. “Selling liquor at MRP, close to it, or at discounted rates is illegal. Pricing norms have to be strictly followed,” he said, adding that enforcement checks would be intensified to curb such practices.The DEO also clarified that while a Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC) is not mandatory to obtain an FL-11 licence, establishments using it regularly should secure one as a safety measure. Bars operating frequently under FL-11, he said, should apply for a Fire NOC even if it is not required.He added that outlets running bars from malls or permanent commercial complexes should shift to regular licensing, directing such FL-11 holders to apply for a permanent FL-7 licence at the earliest. The excise department warned that all FL-11 licensees must strictly comply with standard operating procedures and the Excise Policy 2025-26, failing which action will be taken under the Uttar Pradesh Excise Act, 1910, and related rules.
