What are the requirements for obtaining a liquor license in Georgia?
To obtain a liquor license in Georgia, there are several requirements that a business owner must meet.
First, the business must operate in a county or municipality that allows alcoholic beverage sales. Once this requirement is met, the applicant can apply for a liquor license from the Georgia Department of Revenue Alcohol & Tobacco Division.
Second, the business owner must obtain a Federal Alcohol Permit from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. This permit allows the holder to legally produce, bottle, or store alcohol.
The third requirement is for the business owner to provide proof of ownership or control of the establishment where the alcohol will be served. This can include a lease or purchase agreement, property deed, or other documents that prove the applicant has the right to operate the business.
Next, the business owner must complete an alcohol server training course. This course covers responsible service of alcohol, including how to recognize and handle situations when a customer has had too much to drink.
Finally, the business owner must submit a completed liquor license application to the Georgia Department of Revenue. Along with the application, the applicant must provide a copy of their Federal Alcohol Permit, their establishment's floor plan, and proof of their alcohol server training completion.
There are several potential limitations or exceptions to these requirements in specific circumstances. For example, if the applicant is submitting an application for a temporary permit, they may not need to meet all of the standard requirements. Additionally, if the applicant is purchasing an existing licensed establishment, they may have different requirements for obtaining a license.
If further clarification or assistance is required, it is recommended to consult with a licensed attorney who specializes in liquor licensing in Georgia.