Slip and Fall Lawyer
Getting ahold of a liquor license is a challenging and long process. Because every state has its own specific governing agency on licensing liquor, many cities within a single state can have additional requirements and rules about licensing procedures. It would take a long time to go through every individual state’s laws regarding liquor licensing, but this article will help give a general idea of how to obtain one. You should definitely get to know your specific state’s laws regarding liquor licensing. Whether you are a restaurant, bar, or store, if you do not adhere to liquor licensing laws you can incur hefty fines and penalties. Every state has an ABC (alcoholic beverage control) agency that regulates the distribution and sale of liquor. You should reach out to your local agency’s office to double check that you have everything in order with your liquor license. Try to do this as early on as possible, so that if you run into any problems along the way, they can be resolved in a timely manner. If you are currently planning on opening your own restaurant or bar and serving alcohol there, you should begin the process of obtaining a liquor license right away. Getting approved can take anywhere from a few weeks to two years, but having a business attorney in Charlottesville, VA can help with the process.
You should also take into account the cost of the license and decide from there if you would like to obtain one. It can vary from state to state as well as city to city. Sometimes, you will only need to pay $100-600 dollars just to cover your application fee and the taxes associated with it. Other times, you will have to pay thousands of dollars. Make sure you create an outline as well of the business that you are planning on running.Because there are many different kinds of licenses for all kinds of different business (like how stores require a different liquor license than a restaurant). Make sure you are diligent in filling out the forms as best and as accurate as you can; you can get the forms from your local ABC agency. In some states, you will be required to submit an application to both your city and the state. You should also be very prepared to defend your business proposal, in the event that the ABC reaches out to make sure you are a legitimate business. Your application, including the name of your business, your name, the license you are currently applying for and what type of selling privileges you would be entitled to if you were approved will be posted for the public to view online .It must also be publicly displayed on your business storefront as well for a varied amount of time (depending on your state). During this timeframe, anyone in your community can contest your liquor license application.
Do not forget to renew your license every year. You will have to pay a renewal fee, but it will be a lot less than the initial licensing fee.
Thanks to Dale Jensen, PLC for their insight into business law and liquor licenses.