Every state has regulations governing the licensing of alcohol sales. Similarly, California is no different. But, how to get a liquor license in California?
It is a great idea to run the bar during concerts or sell drinks during a festival. However, music venues have strict regulations regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages. This also applies to your case, even if you do not own the place.
In addition to that, you will not be able to build a pop-up store selling alcohol instantly. Basically, you will have to get the permission from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).
Hence, whether it’s a one-time show or a regular gig, you have to follow the legal process. This way, you will be able to avoid legal issues.
Hence, always consult a concert venues and music arenas attorney. This way, you will be able to avoid common delays or mistakes in the process.
Liquor Licenses in California: What You Must Know?
Primarily, if you want to sell alcohol in California, you will have to get different types of licenses.
In general, California gives out many different licenses. You have to pay attention so that you don’t mix them up with each other.
If you have Type 20, you will be able to sell beer and wine in shops. However, if you have a Type 21, you will be able to sell beer, wine, and spirits outside of stores.
Meanwhile, for beer and wine sales on the land, you would require a Type 41 license. For general on-sale, you would require a Type 47 license.
Also, there are even special licenses available for sales during specific occasions. In fact, there are special licenses for temporary events.
Therefore, you must know the rules and limits that come with each license. This way, you will be able to choose the one that works best for your location.
Major Types of Liquor Licenses in California
Basically, the license you choose to apply for depends on the type of alcohol you want to sell from your liquor store. Also, it depends on the location where your customers will consume.
The following are the major liquor licenses you might apply for in California:
| Types of Licenses | Purpose |
| On-sale beer license | To sell beer only. |
| On-sale beer and wine license | To sell beer and wine only. |
| On-sale general license | To sell beer, distilled spirits, and wine. |
| Off-sale beer and wine license | To sell beer and wine for off-premises consumption. |
| Off-sale general license | To sell beer, spirits, and wines for consumption in off-premises. |
In addition to that, there are also particular licenses you might apply for. These include an on-sale general eating place license. In this case, you will be able to sell beer, spirits, and wines for consumption on your liquor store premises.
How to Get a Liquor License in California? – Essential Steps
The following are the major steps you have to follow if you want to acquire a liquor license in California:
- Be careful that you are following all the rules set by the state.
- Decide on the type of license you require, based on what the establishment’s activities are.
- Prepare all materials required. These include personal identification documents, disclosure of personal finances, and all business formation documentation.
- After collecting necessary documents and assembling them, fill out the application.
- Pay the application fees and submit your application.
You may be subject to a background check and possibly an interview. However, these are just standard procedures. Just comply with any public hearings and other local requirements.
Cost of Getting a Liquor License in California
If you want to get a liquor license in California, the following are the costs you have to incur:
| Type of License | Application Fees |
| General (Priority) | $18,635 |
| General (Non-Priority) | $1,065 |
| General Restrictive Service (On-Sale) | $7,060 |
| General Eating Place on Public Property (On-Sale) | $7,060 |
| Non-General | $1,065 |
| Non-General (Duplicate Type 02) | $520 |
| Non-General (Types 06, 26, 28, 82) | $120 |
Local Regulations and Zoning Requirements
Basically, a liquor license requires knowledge of local legislation and zoning restrictions, including an application form. Hence, contact your municipal or county planning department. They will explain liquor sales zoning to you.
Moreover, ensure your business is located in a zone where liquor sales are legal, as certain zones do impose restrictions. You might also have conflicting regulations in terms of noise levels, operating hours, or occupancy limits.
Primarily, laws vary significantly. Therefore, you must always consult a lawyer or a local businessperson who is knowledgeable about them. In fact, spending time researching these standards may be the best investment to avoid future issues.
Important Considerations for Your Music Venue
Before starting to process your liquor license, think about every special aspect of the music venue that might affect your application.
The type, amount, and placement of alcohol offered depend on capacity and layout. Whether your venue is isolated, near homes, or close to other establishments also factors into the community’s response. These variables may affect the community’s response to your application.
Apart from that, identify your target audience and what sorts of events you’ll be hosting. Basically, these factors will weigh into your liquor sales strategy.
Moreover, give thought to your venue’s security procedures and staffing, which will be important for complying with alcohol laws.
Tips to Successfully Handle the Licensing Process
In most cases, the alcohol licensing procedure feels very overwhelming without a clear plan. Hence, conduct research on the license type applicable to your venue.
Also, get acquainted with the laws of California‘s Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). This is because the laws about them differ by county and city. In addition to that, collect all the required documents early on, like the floor plan of your venue and any necessary permits.
Meanwhile, don’t hesitate to connect with other owners of venues for some valuable hints or advice. When you feel ready, apply for the license and be ready for an inspection.
Basically, if you work hard, you’ll finally make it through the process and enjoy the license in no time.
Obtain Your Liquor License Now
Now you know how to get a liquor license in California. All you must do is follow the necessary steps above. Apart from that, you must also focus on the local regulations and zoning requirements. This way, you will be able to protect your liquor store better. In addition to that, make sure to give more focus to your music venue as well.
Do you want to suggest some tips on how to make a liquor store appealing? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
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