Liquor licenses in california

License fees generally fall into two categories, application fees and annual fees. The Department is authorized to increase alcohol license fees annually by an amount not to exceed inflation to ensure revenues keep pace with increased costs.

Application fees are charged at the time an application is submitted for new licenses, or to transfer or change an existing license. These fees are charged to recover the average cost of processing the application, including the investigation of the proposed licensed premises and the background of the license applicant. Application fees are generally non-refundable. Application fees are charged for licensing activities related to issuing a new license, transferring an existing license, or making a change to an existing license — such as moving the location of the licensed premises, qualifying a new manager, or changing the ownership structure.

The fees for new licenses or the transfer of an existing license can vary based on the privileges provided by the license. To process most applications, the Department must conduct an investigation regarding the proposed licensee and premises. In some cases, an applicant may require multiple licenses to conduct the proposed business. If an application includes multiple license types for the same premises and all license types are identified at the time of application, only one application fee the highest one will be charged.

Annual fees are charged each year and must be paid to keep a license active for the following year. The annual fee for the first year of operation of a new license is due at the time of application and will allow the license to be active for one year from the date of issuance.

The annual fee that is collected at the time of application is refundable if the application is withdrawn or denied. For some license types, the annual fees charged will vary based on production, population, or the number of months of the year the licensee operates.

These tiers are briefly described below:. The annual fee is the sum of the License Fee and at least one of the following surcharges, depending on the license type. License renewal notices are sent annually to all licensees to communicate the annual fees that are due by the expiration date of the license.

If full payment is not received or postmarked by the expiration date, the following penalties are imposed:. Skip to Main Content. ABC may refuse to issue a license to any person who has violated the ACT, has a disqualifying criminal record, or is otherwise disqualified. It is the responsibility of the licensee to renew his license whether or not he has received a renewal notice from ABC. If the renewal fee and penalty fee has not been paid within 60 days of the expiration of a license, the license is canceled and the licensee may not exercise any privileges of the license.

If the penalty and renewal fee are not paid by the end of the 30th day following cancellation, the license is revoked. Section Skip to Main Content. Providing Assistance to Businesses and Serving Communities. Apply for a License. Apply for a new license For persons or entities seeking to open a new alcohol related business.

Licensing Reports Weekly, monthly, and annual license data, including license searches by geographic location. Different guidelines can apply if you buy an existing business or transfer an existing license compared to starting a new business.

For a business operating under a retail license, you must establish an escrow for the full purchase price to do a license transfer. The escrow agreement must indicate that payment is allowed only after the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control approves the liquor license. Every 12 months, you must renew your license.

You can receive your renewal license about 4 to 6 weeks after your current license expires. Several types of licenses are available, depending on the kind of business you intend to operate and the category of liquor you want to sell. For example, a company that sells directly to the public needs a different license than one that manufactures or distributes alcoholic beverages. You can view a full catalog of liquor licenses on the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control website, but here are the 3 most common:.

California ABC liquor licenses can include hard alcohol general and beer and wine sales only non-general. Also, think about whether you want to serve alcohol for consumption on or off the premises. For example, to serve distilled spirits that your customers can enjoy off-site, an off-sale general license may be best.

Yes, you can get a one-day liquor license in California. This can come in handy for special catering events and other occasions where you want to serve alcohol for a limited amount of time. You can choose between a general or non-general license depending on if you want a full liquor license to serve hard liquor or beer and wine only.

You can apply 10 to 30 days in advance, and the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control has a separate application for daily license authorization. You must also get permission from the property owner where you plan to serve customers. You may also be required to submit a diagram of the event location and get police department approval.

How much you pay for a liquor license in California depends on the type of license, purpose, and miscellaneous fees for services you may need. The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control has a complete application fee schedule you can view. However, here are the common costs you may encounter:.

Remember: The specifics of acquiring a liquor license vary by state, county, and the local area. Contact the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control to determine what kind of liquor license is best, and ask your local officials about business licenses or permits you may need.

You might encounter many obstacles, and it may take a few weeks to several months to get your license. But a business essential that is quick and straightforward is liquor liability insurance.