When is it appropriate to allow a intoxicated patron to stay on-premises for a final non-alcoholic beverage after last call?

When is it appropriate to allow a intoxicated patron to stay on-premises for a final non-alcoholic beverage after last call?

• A. Only if policy permits; otherwise, ensure they leave safely.
• B. Always.
• C. If staff are bored.
• D. If they promise to leave soon.

Answer: (A)

After last call, safety and clear policy guidance drive decisions about staying for a final drink. You should only allow a intoxicated patron to stay for a final non-alcoholic beverage if your establishment’s policy explicitly permits it. The policy exists to provide a consistent, safe approach to handling intoxicated guests and to prevent ambiguity in how long someone can remain on the premises. If the policy does permit it, you can offer a final non-alcoholic drink as a courtesy while you help them arrange safe transportation or supervise their wait, but you must still ensure they leave safely—whether by calling a taxi/ride-share, coordinating with a designated driver, or escorting them to a safe exit. If there’s no policy allowing this, you should not keep them on the premises; prioritize getting them home safely as soon as possible after last call.

After last call, safety and clear policy guidance drive decisions about staying for a final drink. You should only allow a intoxicated patron to stay for a final non-alcoholic beverage if your establishment’s policy explicitly permits it. The policy exists to provide a consistent, safe approach to handling intoxicated guests and to prevent ambiguity in how long someone can remain on the premises. If the policy does permit it, you can offer a final non-alcoholic drink as a courtesy while you help them arrange safe transportation or supervise their wait, but you must still ensure they leave safely—whether by calling a taxi/ride-share, coordinating with a designated driver, or escorting them to a safe exit. If there’s no policy allowing this, you should not keep them on the premises; prioritize getting them home safely as soon as possible after last call.