Overview
Once you have received a retail license from the Liquor Authority, there are rules and guidelines your licensed establishment must follow. It's important for all retail licensees to make sure their managers and employees are appropriately trained and know the legal responsibilities of selling alcoholic beverages to avoid any violations.
You as the licensee are responsible for the activities of employees and patrons in all parts of the licensed premises (even if you are not always physically present) to ensure that the business is operating in accordance with the law.
As a licensed retailer, you may only purchase alcoholic beverages from wholesalers and manufacturers who are licensed in this state. You cannot buy from another retailer in this state unless the retailer is selling its inventory with a liquidator’s permit. You cannot purchase alcoholic beverages from any entity located outside of this state.
You must remember to renew your license before the expiration date. The length of the licensing period varies depending on the class or type of license issues. You must also notify the Authority of any changes you make to your licensed premises, and in some cases, you must first receive approval from the Authority before making those changes.
Information for Existing Retailers
Many counties have further restricted the hours that you may sell alcoholic beverages County Closing Hours
Liquor and wine stores can sell alcohol between 8 AM and Midnight on Mondays through Saturdays; and between 10 AM to 10 PM on Sundays.
Off-premises beer licenses can sell beer all day every day of the week.
On-premises beer, wine or liquor licenses can sell alcohol from 8 AM to 4 AM on Mondays through Saturdays; and between 10 AM and 4 AM on Sundays.
What You Need to Know
Existing Retailers
ATAP and Preventing Sales to Minors
The Authority recommends that all licensees and employees who serve or sell alcoholic beverages take an Alcohol Training Awareness Program. These programs focus on the legal responsibilities of selling alcohol and provide training in practical skills to help licensees and their employees avoid violations, including sales to minors.
Licensee Obligations
As a retail licensee, you are responsible for the activities of all employees and patrons in your licensed premises to ensure that the business is operating in accordance with the law. Some of the most common issues faced by retailers that could subject you to disciplinary action include: disorder; extension of premises; serving intoxicated patrons; and offering unlimited drink specials.
Disciplinary Proceedings
Licensees who violate the law may be subject to a disciplinary proceeding. A disciplinary proceeding starts with the issuance of a notice of pleading that contains the alleged violations committed by the licensee. If you are found to have committed a violation, the Authority can suspend, cancel or revoke your license, or impose a fine.