Can Minors Legally Drink at Home in North Dakota?

Everyone remembers the first time they were given a beer. For some of us, it might not have been until our 21st birthday, for other North Dakotans, it might have been when we were underage.

Maybe you were given your first drink when you were much younger. Perhaps it was a special occasion or a father-son bonding moment. While it may seem harmless, the question is whether you can legally do this. I mean, it's your kid, it's your home. I looked it up; can you give minors alcohol in the privacy of your own home?

Drinks To Minors

Did you know that there are several states where it is legal for parents or guardians to give minors alcohol?

Alcohol.org, says there are 19 states that allow minors to consume alcohol under something called the "Family exception" law.

• Washington
• Wyoming
• Montana
• South Dakota
• Texas
• Wisconsin
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Louisiana
• Alaska
• Oregon
• Colorado
• Iowa
• Minnesota
• Illinois
• Virginia
• Maryland
• Delaware
• Maine

North Dakota

What about North Dakota? What's the law on this? According to nd.gov, North Dakota has a "Social Host Liability Law" that says a person holding a party or social gathering is liable for providing alcohol to minors and providing an environment for minors to consume alcohol.

Basically, you control the property and are responsible for what happens there.

So, while other states might allow minors to consume alcohol with parental supervision, it would appear that North Dakota is not one of them.