Apply for a Retail License

Step 1.Validate Requirements

Please make sure you meet the requirements for the specific application in which you are applying. Our application process will support you in making sure that you are completing the right application.

Step 2.Gather Documents

The required documents will be uploaded during the application process into the Citizen Portal. Accepted file types are PDF only, please have the documents prepared to be uploaded.

Step 3.Complete Application

The online application process is handled through our Citizen Portal. Please click the link below to start the application, you will be guided through a series of questions that help make sure you are in the right application and that you meet all necessary requirements.

Get Started

Step 4.Pay Fees

All fees can be paid through the online portal. Application will not be processed by the Agency without full payment of fees.

Step 5.Review of Application

Once your completed application is received and fees have been paid, the Agency will process your application. The processing of Industry related applications may include a background investigation on the applicant by the Agency and will include an inspection of the proposed premises. An official with the Agency will contact you to set up a date and time for an inspection of the premises.

The inspection will consist of:

• Reviewing the proposed designated area for sale and/or consumption of liquor;
• Reviewing all other required licenses for your business type; and
• Checking for necessary and required equipment applicable to license being sought

If all requirements are met, the State Liquor Licensing Inspector will issue the applicant a temporary license allowing purchases and sales of liquors as applicable to the license.

Step 6.Ongoing Oversight by the Agency

After licensing occurs, the Agency monitors all licensed premises for compliance with State liquor laws. The Agency has staff assigned to cover the State for compliance and enforcement activities. Part of the ongoing compliance activities are unannounced inspections of premises.

These inspections will be primarily focused on:

• Presence of a Liquor License in the premises;
• Food Inventory (if required as a condition of your license);
• Liquid Inventory
• Records of your business including, but not limited to:
  • Liquor and Food Purchases and Sales;
  • Completed Affidavits from Employees;
  • Operating Hours; and
  • Seating Capacity;
• Permits required for any live entertainment with dancing; and
• Compliance with selling or serving to minors

If a violation is discovered as part of any inspection or complaint, the Inspector will take the appropriate action. A licensee may receive an official warning or be cited for the violation and 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.

The Agency wants to minimize non-compliance by licensees. Please contact the Agency for information or assistance in managing your business appropriately under State liquor laws. The Agency is here to assist you in being good stewards of your liquor license.