Beer Tabs Are Illegal: Authorities Warn Bars Risk Losing Licences Over Credit Sales

Beer outlet operators who allow customers to drink now and pay later are violating Zimbabwe's liquor laws and could face serious penalties, including prosecution and the loss of their operating licences, authorities have warned. The warning comes as police and liquor licensing officials intensify awareness campaigns around the provisions of the Liquor Licensing Act [Chapter 14:12], which generally prohibits the sale or supply of alcohol on credit.

A "tab" system, commonly used in some bars and drinking establishments, allows customers to accumulate purchases over time and settle their bills later. However, Zimbabwean law requires payment for liquor at the time it is supplied on licensed premises. Under Section 81 of the Liquor Licensing Act, no person may supply or consume liquor on licensed premises unless it has been paid for immediately when provided.

The legislation is designed to promote accountability within the liquor industry and reduce disputes, disorderly conduct, and alcohol-related abuse associated with unpaid debts. Speaking during a stakeholder consultation workshop on the review of the Liquor Licencing Act in Mutare, Officer-in-Charge (Crime) at Police General Headquarters, Chief Inspector

Tonderai Brian Chigweshe said many operators remain unaware of key legal obligations governing their businesses.

"What is certain is that all those who sell beer or operate beer outlets operate under the Liquor Licensing Act, but they do not know what is contained in the Act. All they are after is profit," said Chigweshe.

"Most of you do not know that selling alcohol on credit is a crime. Even when they go to the extent of trading beyond their stipulated time frames simply because they want to plead ignorance of the law, but ignorance is no defence."

The Act does, however, provide specific exceptions to the prohibition on credit sales. Guests staying at hotels operating under hotel liquor licences may consume alcohol and settle charges through their accommodation accounts.

Additional exemptions apply to liquor supplied alongside meals, alcohol served in moderate quantities during social functions hosted on licensed premises, drinks supplied to boarders and guests, and beverages offered free of charge by proprietors to friends or regular patrons. The law also empowers bar owners, managers, and staff to deny entry to or remove individuals who are intoxicated, violent, quarrelsome, or behaving in an offensive manner.

People who habitually visit licensed premises to solicit drinks from other patrons may likewise be excluded. Where necessary, uniformed police officers are required to assist licence holders in removing disruptive individuals and may use reasonable force when circumstances warrant. The legislation further regulates operating hours by prohibiting the consumption of alcohol on licensed premises more than 30 minutes after official closing time, except in circumstances specifically permitted under the law.

Authorities say the ongoing review of the Liquor Licensing Act is aimed at improving awareness and strengthening compliance across the liquor industry, where breaches of the law remain common. Officials have urged both operators and customers to familiarise themselves with the legislation, warning that non-compliance could result in fines, criminal charges, or the suspension and cancellation of liquor licences.

Beer tabs illegal in Zimbabwe