Alcoholic beverage licenses and permits are necessary for businesses selling alcoholic beverages in Texas. However, the process can be complicated and confusing. Knowing what you’re doing is important, as mistakes can cost you time and money. The first step is determining which kind of permit you need. Different types of licenses authorize different kinds of alcohol sales and consumption.
Determine Which Kind of License You Need
Businesses that plan to manufacture, sell, or serve alcohol in the state of Texas need a license. There are various types of TABC permits and licenses, and the specific kind that you need depends on your business type and the type of alcohol you will be selling. So, how to get an alcohol permit in Dallas TX? Businesses must first ascertain the precise kind of permit needed based on their anticipated alcohol sales to apply for an alcohol permit in Dallas, Texas. They then need to complete the necessary application forms, adhere to local regulations, and may benefit from seeking guidance from liquor license consulting services to expedite the process and ensure compliance. For example, you will need a Retail Permit to sell wine and liquor. This permit authorizes you to sell alcohol for on- or off-premise consumption. You will also need a Food and Beverage Certificate, a common secondary license that may be required or discretionary depending on your wet/dry status and the zoning of your location.
Local ordinances must also be considered, as some counties have a 1,000-foot distance from schools requirement, publication requirements, fees, standards for late-hour business operations, and other rules. Liquor licensing can be complicated, so it is best to have a professional help you navigate the process.
Fill Out the Correct Forms
Once you’ve figured out exactly which TABC license(s) your establishment needs, the next step is to fill out the correct forms. The required forms will depend on your business and whether your operation is a retailer, manufacturer or wholesaler/distributor. Some forms you may need to complete include publishing notices, creating a publisher’s affidavit, and dealing with additional city, county, or state certifications and requirements.
It’s also important to follow local ordinances regarding zoning restrictions, fees, late-hour standards, and other issues that could affect your alcohol sales and service. Once you’ve completed the appropriate forms and met all TABC guidelines, you’ll be ready to open for business! Remember to provide your customers with a top-notch point-of-sale experience.
Comply with Local Ordinances
Businesses that manufacture, sell or serve alcohol must follow state and local rules to obtain the appropriate liquor licenses. These can include zoning restrictions, fees, standards for late-hour business operations and more. Businesses must also be sure to have no recent convictions involving moral turpitude to sell alcohol.
In addition, local ordinances should be reviewed to ensure they are compatible with state laws. For example, in 2015, Dallas passed an ordinance that requires construction workers to take 10-minute breaks every four hours to drink water. A bill that the state legislature has since passed could upend this law. This could have significant consequences for businesses that operate in Dallas.
Pay the Fees
Getting a license to sell alcohol can be costly. The fees depend on what kind of license you need and its validity, including any renewals. The state requires businesses to pay a fee and any applicable county, city, or certificate of occupancy fees. Businesses must also collect supporting documents like menus, floor plans, and insurance documents.
Local ordinances, including zoning restrictions and late-hour standards, can add to the cost. In addition, you’ll have to pay for legal notices to be run in local newspapers. While you wait for your permits and licenses to arrive, you can focus on hiring employees, starting marketing campaigns, and designing your space. Having a licensed alcohol expert to guide you through the process can save time, money, and headaches.
Get Approved
There are a lot of details to take into consideration when seeking a business alcohol license. There are publication notices, zoning and occupancy requirements and city alcohol regulations that must be considered. There are also tier violations, written alcohol policies that must be adopted, adherence to established guidelines and more.
In addition, there are state-specific requirements such as a criminal record check and no cross-tier interests (Retail, manufacturing, or distribution). And, of course, it must be a business in an area that is “wet.” Finally, it’s important to note that the law considers marijuana and certain other drugs as being intoxicants, so a refusal to take a breath or blood test can lead to DUI charges and license suspension. For these reasons, working with a professional service agency is often the best option.
