Get your IDs ready, Beverly. Police say citywide alcohol compliance checks will kick off in July and continue through the rest of 2026, and marijuana and THC product inspections are starting immediately. The department plans to use an underage operative with no valid identification to test whether licensed retailers will sell alcoholic beverages to a minor.
According to the Beverly Police Department, the operations are intended to ensure liquor license holders follow rules set by the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission and that marijuana retailers comply with Cannabis Control Commission regulations and City ordinances. Patch reported that licensed establishments found in violation may be asked to appear before the City of Beverly Licensing Board and that Lt. Michael A. Backstrom is the department contact for the program.
How the checks will work
Beverly police say the alcohol checks will feature an underage buyer who will try to purchase drinks without providing any I.D., while marijuana and THC inspections will focus on licensed dispensaries and retailers that may be selling cannabis products without proper authorization. State cannabis regulations require licensed marijuana establishments to permit inspections and to maintain responsible vendor training and records, as set out in the state's 935 CMR rules, according to the Cannabis Control Commission.
What businesses should know
The department is urging owners and managers to review staff I.D.-checking procedures and responsible vendor training before the checks begin. Establishments found out of compliance could be summoned to the City of Beverly Licensing Board at City Hall, according to the City of Beverly Licensing Board. For licensing questions or to discuss the program, businesses can contact Lt. Michael Backstrom, the department's licensing officer; contact details are listed by the Beverly Police Department.
Local history
This is not the department's first compliance push. Beverly ran similar underage alcohol and marijuana checks in 2024, visiting bars, restaurants, dispensaries and retailers, Patch reported. Officials at the time described those operations as public safety measures and reminders for businesses to keep staff training up to date.
Enforcement and penalties
The state's Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission oversees liquor licensing and can pursue fines, suspensions or revocations, and its enforcement division is authorized to investigate alleged violations under state law. The ABCC Enforcement Division maintains advisories and commission decisions that can lead to license sanctions when violations are found.
City-licensed retailers and restaurateurs should expect visits from officers through the rest of the year and are encouraged to review identification and responsible vendor policies now. For more information, contact Lt. Michael Backstrom at [email protected] or consult the City of Beverly Licensing Board.
