Whether starting your bar or looking to buy an existing business, understanding the legal requirements of obtaining an alcohol permit is essential. It will help you avoid costly mistakes and save time.
Liquor licenses are issued by state Alcohol Beverage Control Boards (ABC boards). Depending on where you are, you might need to obtain an on-premise or off-premise liquor license.
Permits
Whether you’re a bar owner, a restaurant, or an alcohol-selling business, you must obtain the proper permits to operate legally. Failure to do so can result in fines, penalties, or even the closure of your business.
There are several different types of licenses that you need to get before you can sell any alcoholic beverages. These include on-premises, off-premises, and retail liquor permits.
Each requires specific requirements and can take up to six months to process. In addition, you’ll need to publish a notice of your application in a newspaper for your establishment’s area.
Some States have a rule prohibiting establishments within 200 feet of a church, school, or synagogue. If your proposed location is close to a place of worship, you may not be granted a liquor license. Alternatively, if your proposed site is within 500 feet of another licensee, you may be required to obtain a separate permit from the local liquor authority.
Legal Requirements
Before you can obtain a Texas alcohol permit, you must meet legal requirements. These include proving that your business meets health, safety, and fire codes and obtaining the appropriate building and zoning permits.
In addition, some states have specific requirements for certain types of businesses. Depending on the form, you may also have to show that your business complies with the “500 Foot Rule.” This rule states that a new liquor license can’t be issued if the building is within 500 feet of three other establishments with an on-premises liquor license.
The Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) board is responsible for determining whether to issue or deny a license, and the process can take weeks or months. The ABC must also consider whether your business meets other local and state regulations.
Fees
Depending on your state, liquor license fees can range from a low initial cost to a high renewal fee. This is why it’s essential to research the price and time frame for obtaining an alcohol permit so you don’t have to worry about it later.
You can apply for a liquor license online through ABC’s website. You’ll need to pay an application fee and submit general business information, fingerprint cards, and a background check, among other things.
Once your application is processed, it’ll be reviewed by a local license board. This review is often based on the proximity and condition of the location, the applicant’s business background and characteristics, the type of operation, and other factors.
The process for obtaining a liquor license in New Mexico is relatively straightforward. Still, it does involve paying a $200 application fee and submitting the required fingerprint cards and tax clearance documents. Applicants in New Mexico are also advised to hire a licensed broker to assist them with obtaining the right kind of license for their business.
Getting Started
When a business needs to sell alcohol, it must obtain an alcohol permit. It is a legal requirement for restaurants, bars, taverns, wineries, temporary special events, and all other businesses that allow customers to consume alcohol on the premises.
Getting an alcohol permit can take a few days to months, depending on the state. In some states, applications are submitted online; in other jurisdictions, they must be mailed or hand-submitted to government offices.
Many licenses vary based on your business and the type of alcohol you plan to serve. These include on-premise and off-premise alcohol permits and liquor store licenses.
To get started, visit the website of your local government. There, you will find the specific forms you need to fill out. These will include the license application, as well as any documents or fees that are required.