Facts Every Business Owner Seeking A Liquor License Should Know
Posted on: 17 April 2018
Any business in the United States which seeks to sell alcoholic beverages needs to first obtain proper liquor licensing. Liquor licenses are issued on a state level, so you have to become intimately familiar with local licensing and application requirements. First, you need to have a properly licensed business on the books before you can even become eligible to apply for a liquor license. Next, there are the fees that you have to pay at the time that you submit your liquor licensing application. It is best to check with a business attorney to learn all of the other specific liquor licensing requirements in your state of residence.
Getting Through the Background Check
If you are certain that your criminal record is squeaky clean, then getting through the background check portion of the liquor licensing process should be a cinch. However, state liquor licensing agencies still go through liquor license applications carefully, so it could take awhile before the results of your federal and state background checks come back. For liquor license applicants who have a criminal history, particularly concerning violent crimes or DUI offenses, past convictions can prove to be a major hindrance.
Selling Packaged Liquor Vs. Serving Alcohol
Liquor stores require valid liquor licensing just the same as bars and restaurants that serve and pour alcoholic beverages to customers. Additionally, different states have their own rules on just who qualifies to pour and sell alcohol. For instance, in certain states, servers and bartenders have to be at least 21 years of age in order to legally be able to serve liquor. Any restaurant found to violate said laws could be shut down and have their liquor license revoked. Operators of liquor stores can have similar minimum age requirements that apply to both employees and customers.
Hours of Operations and Zoning
Business owners who are issued liquor licenses must follow all of the rules in order maintain the right to stay in business. In other words, bars, clubs, restaurants, and liquor stores are generally subject to zoning rules and regulations pertaining to hours of operation. Many states don't permit liquor stores to open before a certain time of day, or restrict their business hours on the weekends. In addition, establishments that serve alcohol usually cannot be located within 1,000 feet of schools, daycare centers, churches, and other houses of worship. Ensure that you obtain liquor licensing in a timely fashion by checking your application to see that you've met all local requirements. For more information, contact companies like Arizona Liquor Industry Consultants.
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