How to Get a Liquor License

Step 1: Get Application Forms

All the License and Permit Application Forms you need are available online. You can also contact the Liquor Licensing Division at 624-7220 to request applications.

Step 2: Complete Application

For an On-Premise License (Bar, Restaurant, Hotel, Etc.)

A complete On-Premise License application requires municipal approval on the fourth page of the form. Approval will be granted, or not, once the municipality holds a public hearing to decide the matter.

Title 28-A §653[1B] requires an applicant to advertise his or her pending application in the local/weekly newspaper for 3 consecutive days prior to hearing date, allowing the public to voice any objection.

For a Retail or Off-Premise License

Retail and Off-Premise license applications do not require municipal approval, if the territory in question is unorganized.

A $10.00 Filing Fee must be paid at the County Commissioner's Office for this application. A receipt of this fee being paid must accompany the application to Liquor Licensing.

Step 3: Submit Application

It is important that an application mailed to Liquor Licensing includes a check for the appropriate license fees.

Step 4: Once Application and Fees Received

Processing applications includes a background investigation on the applicant conducted by a Liquor Licensing inspector. If he or she is eligible for a liquor license, the inspector will set up a date and time for an inspection of the premises.

The Inspection will consist of:

Approving the designated area for sale and/or consumption
Checking all other required licenses (see Required Permit List (PDF))
Check for necessary and required equipment applicable to license

If all requirements are met, the inspector will issue the applicant a temporary license allowing purchases and sales of liquors.

Step 5: Once Approved

Routine Inspections

Inspections of a licensee's premise are conducted unannounced and will be especially focused on:

Presence of a Posted Liquor License
Food Inventory (if required under a particular license)
Liquid Inventory
Records of Business including, but not limited to:
- Liquor and Food Purchases and Sales
- Completed Affidavits from Employees
- Operating Hours
- Seating Capacity
Any Live Entertainment with Dancing

Violations

If a violation is discovered, the inspector will take the appropriate action. A licensee may only receive an official warning, or could be referred for prosecution. If a licensee is cited for a violation, there will be an opportunity to resolve the issue through a consent decree. However, if no agreement can be made, the matter will be handled by the District Court.

AGENCY INFORMATION