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Five Particulars You Need To Know To Procure A Liquor License

by Marie Caldwell

If you plan on obtaining a liquor license to sell or serve liquor in your particular state, you may be unfamiliar with the requirements. This may be especially true for a first-time seller of liquor. Whether you plan on selling alcoholic beverages in a restaurant, bar, or grocery or liquor store, there are several aspects you need to know. Before you get started, it would be a good practice to familiarize yourself with your state, county, and township's liquor laws and regulations. Did you know you will need to complete forms for both the township and state? In general, here are 5 particulars of obtaining a liquor license:

1. Liquor License Requirements Vary By Location

Did you know that the regulations for obtaining a liquor license may vary from state to state? This is why you will need to contract your local Alcoholic Beverage Control Agency (ABC) to determine your area's local laws on selling liquor. Another particular to keep in mind is that a liquor license may not be currently available in your particular area. If your township or state has reached the limit of establishments allowed to sell liquor, you may have to wait. The ABC can inform you of the details.

If your township or state has reached the quota or limit on supplying liquor licenses, you may still be able to procure a license from an existing business or proprietor. In such a case, you can expect to pay more than merely the set fees and taxes set by your local township or state. When securing a liquor license from another business, it is best to hire an attorney to look over the contract agreement. This is especially important if you have no prior experience in business of this sort.

2. There Are Two Main Types of Liquor Licenses

Will you be serving alcoholic beverages on site? If you plan on offering liquor at a bar, club, or restaurant, your patrons will be consuming alcohol on the premises. For this requirement, you will need to apply for an on-premises liquor license. However, if you plan on selling alcohol at a grocery store or liquor store, you'll want to apply for the off-premises liquor license.

3. You'll Need to Determine the License Class You'll Require

Also, you must recognize the classification of liquor license you may require. For instance, if you will be manufacturing or producing wine and spirits, you may need a Manufacturer Class A license. If you will be distributing wine, beer, and spirits, you'll need the Wholesaler Class B license. To a novice, these classifications may seem confusing. Your local Alcoholic Beverage Control Agency Can offer you more details.

4. It May Take a Considerable Amount of Time to Procure a Liquor License

You can't expect to hand in your application for a liquor license and receive the permit within a few days or even a few weeks. Some business owners have waited several months or longer to obtain their liquor license. Also, it is possible you won't get it if there are objections to your application. In such a case, you may have to prepare to defend your proposal before a hearing. That said, allow yourself the time you will need. If you plan on selling or serving alcohol, don't put off the application for the last minute. It is best to begin the process as early on as possible.

5. Renewals and Revocations May Occur

Even if you are in good standing with your local ABC, you can expect to have to pay a renewal fee on an annual basis. However, you should note that in some instances, the state or township may actually revoke your liquor license. This would typically occur if there are violations committed. You will receive a set of regulations and you must abide by them or you could face a revocation of your liquor license.   

For more information, contact local professionals like Arizona Liquor Industry Consultants.

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