Overview of Liquor License

A Liquor license is an authorization granted by a State's Excise Department that allows individuals or businesses to manufacture, transport, and sell alcoholic beverages within the state. The license grants businesses the legal permission to sell and market alcohol.

In legal terms, a Liquor License can be defined as legal permission provided by the State Excise Department to those wishing to expand their business by distributing alcoholic beverages or drinks at a designated location. Business owners must comply with the rules and guidelines set by the state authorities.

Selling liquor is often one of the most profitable aspects for businesses in the Restaurant and Hotel sectors. It helps increase profitability due to high demand. However, obtaining a Liquor License involves:

• Numerous requirements
• Documentation
• Complexities
• A detailed course of action

Additionally, as each state has its own set of laws and regulations governing alcohol, state governments are responsible for monitoring the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Benefits of Obtaining a Liquor License
There are several benefits to obtaining a liquor license. Some of them include:

• Provides a proper fine dining experience for customers.
• Allows the restaurant or hotel to sell alcohol legally.
• Enhances the seating component of the restaurant.
• Increases the variety of drinks available to patrons.
• Opens up better access to market opportunities.

Documents Required for Obtaining a Liquor License
The following documents are required to obtain a liquor license:

• Identity proof of the applicant
• Address proof of the applicant
• Address proof of the premises used
• Affidavit duly notarized, declaring actual possession (no litigation involved)
• Physical possession approval (from DDA/NDMC/MCD)
• Layout plan
• License fee (may vary according to circular)
• Security amount (refundable)
• Compliance with interior design as per applicable rules
• NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the Fire Department
• NOC from Municipal Corporation
• Application with business details
• If the applicant is a company, provide a list of directors, MOA, and AOA
• Copy of the latest Income Tax return
• Photograph of the authorized person
• Affidavit stating that the applicant has no criminal background
• Affidavit confirming that the authorized person is not delinquent in payment of dues
• Refrigerator invoice

Checklist to Keep in Mind When Filing for a Liquor License:

• Businesses authorized to sell alcohol.
• Types of liquor that may be sold.
• Who is authorized to sell alcohol?
• Quantity of alcohol that may be sold at a time.
• Who can apply for a liquor license?
• Cost of the liquor license.
• Required documentation for obtaining the license.

Process of Obtaining a Liquor License
Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding the buying, selling, and consumption of liquor. Before applying for a liquor license, it is essential to be aware of the alcohol laws in that state, which are governed by the State Excise Department.

The steps to follow for obtaining a liquor license are:

1. Visit the State Excise Department's Official Website: Begin by exploring the liquor license process and the different types of licenses available in various states.
2. Identify the Type of License Needed: Once you have an understanding of the process, determine which type of liquor license is required.
3. Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents as per the requirements for the specific type of license.
4. Download the Application Form: Get the application form for the specific license from the State Excise Department’s website.
5. Fill Out the Application: Complete the application form with the required details and attach the necessary documents.
6. Pay the Fees: After submitting the application, pay the required fee as specified by the State Excise Department.
7. Verification of Application: The state authority will verify the information provided by the applicant. They may raise queries if required.
8. Public Notice: Once the verification is complete, a public notice will be published by the state authority and displayed at the applicant’s location.
9. Display of the Notice: The notice must be displayed at the location for a designated period. During this time, if there are any objections from the local community, the applicant will have the opportunity to defend their application. If there are no objections, the authority will continue the review process.

After completing these steps, the liquor license may be granted to the applicant, subject to the authority's final approval.

Revoking of the Liquor License
The State Excise Authorities have the power to revoke a liquor license in the following cases:

1. Liquor served on dry days (days when the sale of alcohol is prohibited).
2. Liquor served in violation of prescribed rules and regulations.
3. Liquor served to minors (underage individuals).

Validity of Liquor License
A liquor license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. To renew the license, the applicant must apply at least 30 days before the license expires. The renewal application should be submitted with the payment of renewal charges.

Required documents for renewal include:

• The completed application form.
• The Challan copy.
• Proof of payment of the renewal fee, which is set by the State Government.

Fastzeal Procedure for Liquor License

To legally and efficiently obtain a liquor license, follow the steps outlined above. This process helps businesses improve sales and client satisfaction. Our Fastzeal experts are available to guide you through the liquor licensing process and ensure compliance for smooth operation in India.

Our professionals will assist you in planning the procedure at minimal costs, ensuring a successful completion. We highly recommend appointing an attorney with "Liquor License experience" to navigate the potential pitfalls and fully understand the requirements.

Once the necessary information and payment are provided, our attorney will begin working on your request.