Every business or establishment that plans to sell alcohol must have a liquor license. However, the types of liquor licenses vary by state, county, and municipality.
Here’s an overview of the different types of licenses: on-premises (bar and restaurant), off-premises (bottle) sales, and wholesale. Each has its specific application requirements.
On-Premises
Typically, the on-premises license is used by businesses such as restaurants and bars. Customers can drink on the premises, but the drinks must be served in designated areas that servers monitor to prevent underage drinking or over-intoxication.
Hotels that want to sell beer, wine, or liquor for consumption off-premises may also need this type of license. Applicants must check with their local ABC for specific requirements, including financial verification sheets, zoning and building permits, health and food handling permits, or leases.
The on-premises application requires excellent detail about the business and its plans. The review process can take 22-26 weeks, so getting started as soon as possible is essential. Whether you are buying a licensed business or applying for an on-premises liquor license, it is essential to hire experienced counsel.
Manufacturer
Regardless of the type of business, if your establishment plans on selling alcohol, you will need to obtain a liquor license Dallas TX, from the ABC board. Starting a business varies greatly, so researching local processes and fees is essential.
The most common license is the standard on-premises license, which allows the consumption of liquor, wine, and beer. In addition, the license holder must serve food at the establishment. This license is required for bars, taverns, and other restaurants. Also available is the Cabaret Liquor License, which permits the consumption of liquor, wine, and beer on premises specializing in musical entertainment. Then, the Wine Store License allows only selling wine (no liquor or beer) for off-premises consumption.
Off-Premises
A restaurant holder will need an off-premises license to sell alcohol outside the restaurant. This includes liquor and wine stores, grocery stores that offer alcohol in single-serving bottles, or any other establishment that allows customers to take their purchases away for immediate consumption.
These licenses also allow restaurants to host special events, including public parties and holiday socials. This is a popular way for restaurants to generate extra revenue while following the State Liquor Authority’s guidelines.
Some restaurants may experience issues during the application process that delay or prevent them from getting an off-premises license. These issues include fee mistakes or omissions, document issues like liens placed on the property, location-based issues such as being too close to a church or school, and zoning issues. The best option for a restaurant looking to get an off-premises license is to work with a firm that has former State Liquor Authority officials on staff who can help the process run smoothly.
Wholesaler
You need a wholesaler liquor license to sell beer, cider, RTD spirits beverages, or wine. The license grants the holder the right to sell these products to retailers and restaurants. The application process typically includes a fee. Most applications have several supporting documents that the applicant must submit to complete the licensing process. These documents often include an employer identification number, business license, sales tax permit, building and zoning permits, and a health permit.
The licensing process can take up to 26 weeks. The State Liquor Authority has an online tool that determines the license required based on a questionnaire. It is essential to have all your paperwork together and make sure you are certified before you start selling alcohol. You must also provide 30 days’ notice to your local community board or municipality. This is so they can comment on your license application.
