Get Licensed To Sell Liquor In Georgia

The process of obtaining a liquor license in Georgia involves first getting a local license and then seeking state approval. Each county and city in Georgia has its own unique set of rules and regulations, and it is important to be aware of these before initiating the application process. The type of license required depends on the type of alcohol to be served and how it will be served. The cost of a liquor license varies depending on the type of license, the size of the restaurant, and the location. The application process can take anywhere from 40 days to six months, and it is important to have all the necessary documents ready to ensure a smooth process.

Local license requirements

• Zoning regulations: These can include minimum retail space requirements, such as in Atlanta, where standalone establishments must have zoning approval for at least 50,000 square feet of retail space.
• Types of licenses available: The type of license you need will depend on the type of alcohol you plan to serve and how you will serve it. Common types of licenses include beer and wine, full liquor, on-sale, and off-sale.
• Quota systems: Some cities use quota systems to cap the number of available licenses. If your location has a limit, you may need to wait for a license to become available or purchase one from an existing business.
• Dry zones: Some neighborhoods or areas within a city may have restrictions on alcohol sales.
• Additional permits: If you plan to offer delivery or catering services, you may need an additional permit for off-premise alcohol sales.
• Local insurance demands: In addition to the general insurance requirements for businesses serving alcohol, your local authorities may have additional insurance requirements.

Once you have researched the local license requirements and gathered the necessary documentation, you can submit your application to your local Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) board or the relevant municipal department. This can often be done online, but some areas still require paper applications. It is important to double-check that your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays or rejections. The cost of a local liquor license can vary significantly depending on your location, the type of license, and the size of your business.

State approval

In Georgia, state approval for liquor sales is a crucial step in the process of obtaining a liquor license. The time frame for obtaining a new license can vary, taking anywhere from 40 days to six months, or even up to 120 days. This process involves both local and state-level approvals, and the specific requirements may differ depending on the county and city where the business operates.

Firstly, it is essential to understand the different types of liquor licenses available in Georgia. The state offers four main types of licenses: Hotel In-Room, Retail Dealer, Retail Package, and Consumption On-Premise. Hotel In-Room licenses allow hotels to provide unopened alcoholic beverages in guest rooms. Retail Dealer licenses are for selling unopened beer or wine, excluding spirits, to customers. Retail Package licenses permit the sale of unopened beer, wine, or spirits, while Consumption On-Premise licenses are suitable for establishments serving alcoholic drinks by the glass.

To obtain state approval, you must first secure a local license from your municipality or county. Each jurisdiction has its own set of rules and requirements, including zoning restrictions, quota systems, and dry zones. These regulations can impact the type of license you need and the overall complexity of the process. Once you have obtained your local license, you can proceed to the next step.

The next step is to submit your application for state approval to the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR). This application process can often be completed online through the Georgia Tax Center (GTC) portal, but some areas may still require paper applications. It is crucial to ensure that your application is complete and accurate, as missing or incorrect information is a common cause of delays or rejections. Along with the application, you may be required to submit additional forms, such as fingerprint cards for background checks.

The cost of a liquor license can vary significantly depending on factors such as the type of license, the size of your business premises, and your location. Some cities may charge a few hundred dollars, while others may have fees reaching several thousand dollars. It is important to be aware of the financial requirements and plan accordingly.

During the state approval process, you may also need to obtain additional permits or approvals from various departments, such as the city hall, police department, fire department, or health department. These requirements will depend on the specific circumstances of your business and the location where you intend to sell liquor.

It is worth noting that Georgia is a dram shop liability state, which means that businesses serving alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated individuals can be held legally responsible for any injuries or harm caused by those individuals under the influence. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure compliance with all state and local regulations regarding liquor sales and service.

Necessary documents

In Georgia, the liquor license application process involves a significant amount of paperwork. It is important to have all the necessary documents ready before beginning the application process to ensure a smooth procedure. The specific documents required may vary depending on the county and city in which the business operates, so it is advisable to check the requirements for your specific location. Here is a list of commonly requested documents and general guidelines to help you prepare for the liquor license application process in Georgia:

• Proof of Business Ownership: Official documents such as Articles of Incorporation or an LLC agreement are often required to establish proof of business ownership.
• Lease or Property Ownership Agreements: Providing legitimate proof of your restaurant's address is essential. This can be done through lease agreements or property ownership documents.
• Detailed Floor Plan: A detailed floor plan of the restaurant or establishment is typically required. This plan should include designated areas for serving and storing alcohol.
• Health and Safety Permits: Depending on the local regulations, health and safety permits or certificates of inspection may be necessary.
• Financial Statements: Financial statements, tax returns, and proof of capital may be requested to assess the financial stability and compliance of the business.
• Background Checks: Many jurisdictions will require background checks for owners, partners, and key employees to ensure they have clean criminal records and no history of alcohol-related offenses.
• Zoning Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the zoning regulations specific to your city or town. Some areas may have restrictions on alcohol sales or require minimum retail space for liquor licenses.
• Local Licensing Authority: Visit the website of your local licensing authority or the state's Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) board to understand the unique requirements for your area.
• Additional Permits: If your business offers delivery or catering services involving alcohol, you may need an additional permit for off-premise alcohol sales.
• Federal Alcohol Permit: The Alcohol and Tobacco Trade Bureau issues federal alcohol permits. You will need to determine your permit type and business type before submitting your application electronically.
• Special Events Liquor License: If you plan to host events and sell alcoholic beverages, you may need approval from various departments, including the city hall, police department, fire department, and health department.

It is important to note that the above list is not exhaustive, and there may be additional documents or requirements specific to your city or county. Therefore, it is essential to carefully review the guidelines provided by your local licensing authority or the Georgia Department of Revenue.

Application submission

In Georgia, the liquor license application process involves a lot of paperwork. It is important to have all the necessary documents ready before submitting your application to avoid delays or rejections. The application process can take anywhere from 40 days to six months, so it is crucial to plan ahead.

Firstly, research the specific liquor licensing laws in your state, county, and city. Each jurisdiction has its own set of rules and requirements, including zoning restrictions, quota systems, and dry zones. Knowing these in advance will help you choose the right license for your business and avoid unnecessary delays. Visit the website of your state's Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) board or your local licensing authority to understand the types of licenses available and the relevant restrictions.

Commonly required documents include proof of business ownership, lease or property ownership agreements, a detailed floor plan of the restaurant, health and safety permits, financial statements, and background checks for owners, partners, and key employees. Some licenses may also require a background investigation, tax clearance, and a fingerprint process.

If your establishment is applying for a Sunday Sales Pouring Permit, you must submit a separate affidavit signed by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) indicating the expected percentage of food and alcohol sales in a 12-month period. Drawings or snapshots of the facility and its location must also be provided. Additionally, LLC or INC businesses must register with the Georgia Secretary of State and supply the receipt or certificate with their application.

Once you have completed your research and gathered all the necessary documentation, submit your application to your local ABC board or the relevant municipal department. In some areas, you can apply online, while others may still require paper applications. Double-check that your application is complete and accurate, as missing or incorrect information is a common reason for delays or rejections. You may also be asked to submit additional forms, such as fingerprinting cards or personal history statements, along with the main application.

The cost of a liquor license varies depending on the type of license, the size of your business, and your location. Remember that you must first obtain a local license before applying for state approval from the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR).

Additional requirements

The requirements for adding liquor sales to a Georgia state alcohol license vary depending on the specific location and type of business. Here are some additional requirements to consider:

Zoning Regulations

Local zoning laws and regulations will play a significant role in the process of obtaining a liquor license. These regulations can vary greatly depending on the city and county, so it is important to research the specific rules for your area. For example, in Atlanta, there are specific requirements for the amount of retail space needed for a standalone establishment or a business in a mixed-use development.

Type of License

The type of license you require will depend on the type of alcohol you plan to sell and how it will be served. The state of Georgia offers four main types of licenses: Hotel In-Room, Retail Dealer, Retail Package, and Consumption on Premise. Each municipality may have its own unique names for these licenses, but they generally fall under these four categories.

Local Licensing

Before applying for a state license, you must first obtain a local license. Each municipality in Georgia sets its own requirements and fees for local licensing, so be sure to check with your local licensing authority or the city/town office to understand the specific rules and requirements for your area.

Documentation

The liquor license application process involves a significant amount of paperwork. Common documents required include proof of business ownership, lease or property ownership agreements, a detailed floor plan of the business, health and safety permits, financial statements, and background checks for owners and key employees. Having all the required documents ready beforehand will help streamline the process.

Additional Permits

Depending on your business operations, you may need additional permits, such as an off-premise sales permit if you offer delivery or catering services. If you plan to sell alcohol on Sundays, you may need a separate Sunday Sales Pouring Permit, which requires an affidavit indicating the expected percentage of food and alcohol sales in a 12-month period.

Insurance

Before opening a business that requires a liquor license in Georgia, it is crucial to have the right insurance coverage. The state of Georgia is a dram shop liability state, which means that businesses can be held liable for any injuries or deaths caused by serving alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated individuals. Ensure you have adequate liquor liability insurance to protect your business.

Frequently asked questions